The National Horseracing Authority confirms that it is aware of an incident that took place at Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse on Saturday, 3 July 2021.
The incident between Stable Employee and Colour Holder Mr Andrew Fortune and the South African Police Services has resulted in criminal charges being laid against Mr Fortune by the South African Police Services.
Andrew Fortune – suspended (Pic – Chase Liebenberg / pic taken prior to lockdown protocols)
Ed – In reference to ‘criminal charges’, the Sporting Post has learnt that Mr Fortune was fined R1 000 after being found guilty in a Durban court on Monday on a charge of crimen injuria.
The incident is closely related to the enforcement of the current strict protocols to ensure that Horseracing can continue to take place behind closed doors in a safe and responsible manner. Any contravention of the Racing behind closed doors protocols and the Disaster Management Act are seen in the most serious light.
After considering the incident and the disciplinary history of Mr Fortune relating to his conduct on Racecourse property, the Chief Executive and Racing Control Executive have decided that urgent intervention is required to ensure that Horseracing can continue to take place in a responsible and safe manner for the sake of all of its stakeholders.
In terms of the provisions of Rule 91.2, Mr Fortune is suspended and as such is precluded from attending race meetings until an Inquiry Board has finalised the determination of this matter.
The interim suspension is effective with immediate effect.
- Media release by NHA on Tuesday 6 July 2021
