The British Horseracing Authority has taken decisive action against registered owner Michael Thomas, issuing a permanent exclusion order that bans him from all licensed racing premises following his conviction for serious sexual offences.
Thomas, who appeared at Cardiff Crown Court earlier this month, was found guilty of rape and sexual assault against a woman in her twenties. The disturbing incident occurred in Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, in August 2022.
Immediate Action from Racing Authorities
In response to the conviction, the BHA moved swiftly to remove Thomas from the sport. The authority confirmed that his ownership registration has been cancelled with immediate effect, effectively ending his involvement in British horseracing.
The exclusion order means Thomas is prohibited from entering any racecourse, training yard, or other licensed premises associated with the sport across the country.
Details of the Criminal Case
Court proceedings revealed that Thomas attacked his victim after she had socialised with him and another individual in Abergavenny. The court heard how the woman woke to find Thomas sexually assaulting her before he proceeded to rape her.
Judge Tracey Lloyd-Clarke described the offence as "so serious" that only an immediate custodial sentence could be justified. Thomas received an eight-year prison term and will remain on the sex offenders register indefinitely.
Racing's Stance on Criminal Behaviour
The BHA released a statement emphasising their zero-tolerance approach to criminal conduct. "We expect all those involved in British racing to uphold the highest standards of behaviour," a spokesperson stated.
This case highlights the authority's commitment to maintaining integrity within the sport and protecting the racing community from individuals who commit serious crimes.
The permanent exclusion serves as a clear message that criminal behaviour, particularly offences of this severity, has no place in British horseracing.
