Damning report into harness racing reveals race fixing and animal abuse

Tasmanian harness racing participants are in shock following the release of a damning report into the state’s racing industry. This comprehensive investigation, led by racing and national integrity expert Ray Murrihy has unveiled a series of alarming issues within the industry, including animal abuse, race fixing, and team driving.

The need for an independent investigation emerged after the ABC broadcasted troubling allegations about the industry in March 2023. Appointed by the Tasmanian government, Ray Murrihy embarked on a meticulous 10-month inquiry, scrutinizing allegations that spanned over three years. The final report, delivered to the state government last year, was made public today, casting a shadow over Tasmania’s harness racing scene.

In-Depth Investigation Process

The Murrihy inquiry was extensive, involving over 50 interviews and the examination of more than 45 submissions. The team meticulously reviewed race footage, scrutinized betting data, and conducted site visits. This thorough process aimed to validate the allegations raised in the ABC report and additional submissions.

The investigation focused on allegations of team driving and race fixing in four specific races, two of which were highlighted in the ABC report. Of these, two races were found to be non-compliant with the Australian Harness Racing Rules (AHRR), while the other two lacked sufficient evidence for a similar conclusion. The report also noted the inability to deeply investigate all 50 races due to time and resource constraints, but a condensed list of 15 races has been compiled for further government scrutiny.

Ben Yole: At the Center of Controversy

Ben Yole, Tasmania’s top harness racing trainer, is a central figure in the report. The investigation found non-compliance with AHRR in two races linked to horses trained by Yole. Additionally, the report raised concerns about the treatment of horses at Yole’s Sidmouth property. Despite these findings, Yole has consistently denied any wrongdoing.

Key Issues and Recommendations

The report highlights several deficiencies in the industry, including stocking density, ground conditions, feeding practices, and veterinary treatment record-keeping. It underscores the lack of enforceable harness rules or measurable minimum standards for stables and training properties. To address these gaps, the report recommends the development and enforcement of measurable minimum standards, ensuring they are integrated into the rules for greater accountability.

This bombshell report not only sheds light on the troubling aspects of Tasmania’s harness racing industry but also serves as a call to action. It emphasizes the need for stringent regulations and oversight to protect the integrity of the sport and the welfare of the horses involved.

Felix Ellis, Minister for Racing expressed his shock at the report’s findings, which highlighted significant failings in the regulatory system, including poor complaint handling, lack of policies, and transparency issues.

View the Government media release click here.

In response, the government has decided to abolish the Office of Racing Integrity, replacing it with a new system outlined in the Racing Regulation and Integrity Bill. This bill, already introduced in Parliament, aims to establish the Tasmanian Racing Integrity Commissioner to oversee welfare and integrity functions, a move supported by both Murrihy and Tasracing.

The report also identified the need for a major overhaul of the racing model to enhance competition and safeguard against unethical practices. Tasracing has been urged to improve competition, even if it means short-term challenges like smaller race fields and reduced programs.

by Harnesslink Media