WA jockey Joseph Azzopardi has been banned for six weeks ban after he was deemed at fault in Sunday’s Perth Cup which saw the race abandoned and a horse die.
Perth Racing CEO James Oldring said: “Our thoughts are with all those connected with Chili Is Hot.”
“This is one of the hardest events for anyone involved with racing to deal with.
“The welfare of jockeys and horses is always our top priority.”
After an investigation, it was deemed that Azzopardi, who was riding Buster Bash was at fault, charging him with “careless riding under AR131(a) with the particulars being that near the 2200m he allowed Buster Bash to shift outwards when not clear of Chili Is Hot (P Knickey) causing that mare to contact the heels of Buster Bash and fall with Dom To Shoot (J Turner) falling in consequence and Neufbosc (B Parnham) and numerous other runners also receiving interference.”
Azzopardi pleaded guilty to the charge and was suspended for six weeks.
“It is the worst moment in my racing career.” Azzopardi told The West
“It was not intentional and I was trying to control Buster Bash, who was riding waywardly.”
