A racehorse owner has been banned from the course for four months after threatening a British trainer with the words 'You will be next, keep smiling'. The incident occurred at Royal Randwick Racecourse in Sydney earlier this month.
Jason Love, 59, a former Australian Rules football player and coach, owned a share in Sydney Bowler, trained by the partnership of John O'Shea and Tom Charlton. Charlton is the brother of British trainer Harry Charlton and son of champion trainer Roger Charlton.
Love approached Charlton after Sydney Bowler finished third, interrupting a debrief with other owners. A RacingNSW report stated Love acted 'in an aggressive manner' and directed 'improper, threatening and insulting language' at Charlton. He pointed his finger in Charlton's face and repeated the phrase, 'You will be next, keep smiling'.
Investigators interviewed witnesses and reviewed CCTV footage before charging Love with conduct detrimental to the interests of racing. He pleaded guilty at a disciplinary hearing on Monday. Stewards noted his contrition but issued a four-month disqualification, which could be reduced to three months if he completes anger management counselling.
The incident took place in an open area within view of jockeys, trainers and members of the public. Love has been told the ban applies to all racecourses under the jurisdiction of RacingNSW.
