Experienced jockey Raymond Spokes has lodged an appeal against a two-month suspension imposed after Racing NSW stewards found him guilty of two sexual harassment charges involving a female racing industry participant.
The charges followed a stewards’ inquiry conducted at Coffs Harbour Racecourse, where evidence was heard from Spokes, the female participant, licensed stablehands and a trainer.
Stewards also considered a brief of evidence that included interviews with a number of industry participants.
The first charge related to comments allegedly made by Spokes on April 13, with stewards finding he directed two remarks of a sexual nature towards the female participant.
Stewards determined the comments were made in circumstances where a reasonable person would have anticipated they could offend, humiliate or intimidate the recipient.
A second charge concerned another comment with sexual connotations directed at the same participant.
Spokes pleaded not guilty to both allegations but stewards found each charge proven.
He was suspended for two months on the first charge and one month on the second, with the penalties ordered to be served concurrently.
The suspension is due to run from June 26 until August 26.
Spokes has since exercised his right of appeal and will challenge the findings and penalty.
The 48-year-old is one of New South Wales’ most experienced riders, having ridden close to 1,000 career winners.
