A harness racing driver has called for the disbandment of the Office of Racing Integrity (ORI) in the wake of race-fixing allegations that have rocked the industry. The driver, Gavin Kelly, expressed his lack of confidence in the ORI, emphasizing the need for a new regulatory body to oversee the sport effectively.
The controversy stems from an ABC investigation that uncovered suspicious races and betting activities involving horses from trainer Ben Yole’s stable in Tasmania. Concerns have also been raised about animal welfare standards within the industry.
Kelly revealed that he had raised integrity issues with the ORI in the past, but no action was taken. He criticized the ORI for its perceived inaction and lack of responsiveness to industry concerns, calling for a more robust regulatory framework.
Industry insiders have echoed Kelly’s sentiments, highlighting the need for a comprehensive review to address all allegations and restore integrity to harness racing. The dominance of Yole’s stable in race fields has raised eyebrows, with calls for thorough investigations into race-fixing practices.
In response to the mounting pressure, Racing Minister Madeleine Ogilvie announced an independent review to investigate allegations of race fixing and team driving, as well as concerns about animal welfare. The move aims to restore public trust in the integrity of harness racing.
Despite the ORI’s assurances of steward competence, industry figures like Mattew Cooper have expressed skepticism, citing blatant irregularities in races that have gone unchecked. The need for a transparent and impartial investigation has become paramount.
Veteran industry professional Kent Rattray has welcomed the scrutiny, emphasizing the importance of a thorough review that leaves no stone unturned. The hope is that the investigation will lead to meaningful reforms and a fairer playing field for all participants.
Neighbours of the Yole stables, like Janet Ainscow, have emphasized the significance of the review in addressing long-standing concerns within the industry. Ainscow’s firsthand experience underscores the urgency of addressing issues related to team driving and race manipulation.
While some, like Chester Bullock, view the review as a belated response to industry calls for change, others like Dane Rand see it as a crucial first step towards restoring confidence in harness racing. The industry’s reputation and the welfare of its participants hang in the balance.
As the investigation unfolds and the industry grapples with the fallout of the allegations, stakeholders are hopeful that the review will pave the way for a more transparent, accountable, and fairer harness racing landscape in Tasmania.
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