HRNZ – Statement on Nigel McGrath

A decision has been made allowing Nigel McGrath to make a partial return to the industry, but under very strict conditions.

At the last Harness Racing New Zealand AGM clubs and kindred bodies passed a rule change allowing any banned party to apply for an exemption if they have served at least half of their penalty. McGrath, who was banned for eight years, met this criteria and subsequently applied for a number of exemptions.

HRNZ’s Exemptions Committee met to consider the matter and concluded that the conditions regarding McGrath’s ban would change.

“It is however under tightly-managed conditions and it is up to him to prove he has changed his ways,” says HRNZ Chief Executive Brad Steele.

McGrath cannot hold a trainer’s or driver’s licence. He is allowed to be at a licenced person’s property but he cannot be involved in the training of any horse or work as a stablehand.

He will remain unable to enter a racecourse when a race meeting is taking place.

“There will be zero tolerance,” says Steele, “and any breach of these exemptions would result in immediate consequences, including the potential reinstatement of his disqualification.”

His involvement will be subject to regular review and monitoring by the Racing Integrity Board and Harness Racing NZ.

“The decision balances disciplinary actions with the industry’s obligations to rehabilitate,” says Steele, “a decision to provide anyone with a chance to be re-integrated should not be mistaken for leniency.”

Steele acknowledges the decision won’t be welcomed by everyone in the sport.

“We take those comments onboard and the issue has prompted us to commit to a review of the industry’s integrity standards and processes.”

“It will be an opportunity for everyone in the sport to have their say and will happen shortly.”

From Harness Racing New Zealand