Former SA Champion jockey Andrew Fortune’s bid to ride again after seven years out of the saddle received another frustrating blow on Wednesday when a member of the NHRA appointed appeal board was stood down on medical grounds.
What do they say about justice delayed?
Fortune commenced his quest to return to the saddle in February of this year and by the time the appeal is now likely to be heard on the new date of 14 October, it will be eight months of red tape and shuffling paper – a sad indictment on a system that regulates a dynamic and vibrant industry.
Heidi Barter – batting for the Candyman (Pic – Supplied)
Andrew Fortune’s legal counsel Heidi Barter told the Sporting Post on Wednesday morning that her client was keen to get his licence back and that this was yet another delay.
“With one member absent due to illness, the board could not be considered constituted. We tried to secure an earlier date, but we are at the mercy of the NHRA’s counsel’s diaries and availability. We will continue to ensure that Mr Fortune is given a speedy and fair opportunity to have his application heard,” she added.
The former SA Champion jockey attended the hearing via Skype from his attorney’s offices in Randburg.
“It’s a great pity that there is another delay, but I’m steadfast and determined in proceeding with my quest to return to the only profession for which I am trained, and thus be given an opportunity to earn a living again. We will be ready to state our case on 14 October and I believe my matter is in very good hands and that justice will prevail,” he told the Sporting Post.
Happy family man Andrew with Kylie, Sean & Ashley (Pic – Supplied)
The Sporting Post has been regularly approached by racing fans over recent months eager for updates on a jockey that has captured the public imagination like no other homegrown hero since emerging from the strife-torn streets of Elsies River.
The son of the Cape Flats has lived life across the spectrum, but today he serves as a unique role model to a largely lost generation who face their own challenges with poverty, drugs and unemployment.
