Disqualified under AHRR 193

On Wednesday, June 21, 2023 Harness Racing New South Wales stewards conducted an Inquiry into the conduct of licensed trainer Bill Lesslie on Thursday, July 7, 2022 in relation to the registered standardbred WHY NOTT which was trained by him and engaged to race in race 1, the OUTBACK HOME IMPROVEMENTS PACE (2120 metres) at Dubbo the following day. 

WHY NOTT was subsequently withdrawn from the race by order of the stewards.

An investigation was commenced after HRNSW stewards observed Lesslie stomach tubing WHY NOTT at his registered training establishment.

HRNSW stewards issued a charge against Lesslie pursuant to Australian Harness Racing Rule 193(1) & (9) which states:

AHRR 193.  (1)  A person shall not attempt to stomach tube or stomach tube a horse nominated for a race or event within one clear day of the commencement of the race or event.

…(9) A person who fails to comply with sub-rules (1), (2), (3), (6) or (8) is guilty of an offence.

Lesslie pleaded guilty and was disqualified for a period of 15 months to commence from July 27, 2022, the date upon which he was stood down.

In considering penalty Stewards were mindful of the following;

• The serious nature of this offence;
• Lesslie’s Guilty plea;
• Lesslie’s 1st offence under this rule, however, 3 previous prohibited substance offences;
• HRNSW Penalty Guidelines;
• Lesslie’s licence history and other personal subjective facts.

Lesslie was advised of his right to appeal this decision.

• HRNSW Media