Racing Victoria chief executive Giles Thompson insists Victoria racing isn’t rotten.
In spite of a four-year disqualification for Darren Weir, a drawn-out cobalt saga that led to Peter Moody walking away and the Aquanita case, Thompson says integrity levels are a priority for the governing body.
“These (cases) have come to light of the stewards and have been dealt accordingly. Both (Aquanita and Weir) are high profile and gathered significant interest,” he said.
“However we have the resources in place and the commitment in place to ensure integrity in our sport is maintained.
“Clearly the industry would be happier talking about the positives such as the Festival Of Racing coming up.”
Thompson said the swift actions of the RAD Board in hearing the Weir case sends a clear message that integrity and animal welfare is something RV takes seriously.
He said Weir can have nothing to do with racing for four years and will need to reapply for his licence.
With the Victoria police’s investigation ongoing, Thompson said if any evidence comes to the light, stewards would act accordingly.
“It’s been a very bruising experience for us in racing and will have an impact on us in the short-term, but I’m convinced in the long-term this is the right thing to do for racing,” he said.
“We have to get integrity right and this is a part of that process, an unfortunate part, but a necessary part.”
