The National Horseracing Authority confirms that at an Inquiry held in Gqeberha on 6 September 2024, Apprentice Donald Geerthsen was charged with a contravention of Rule 62.2.7.
![](https://www.sportingpost.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Donald-Geerthsen-steers-Makhachev-to-a-smart-win-Pic-Pauline-Herman.jpg)
Donald Geerthsen has been suspended (Pic – Pauline Herman)
The particulars being that whilst riding Elusive Mata, he failed to ensure that he did not cause interference to Princess Vritti and Vintage Crystal approaching the 400m in Race 2 at Fairview Racecourse on 2 July 2024.
Apprentice Geerthsen pleaded not guilty but was found guilty of the charge.
The Inquiry Board after considering the mitigating factors presented, imposed a penalty of a suspension from riding in races for a period of seven (7) days.
Apprentice Geerthsen was given the Right of Appeal against both the finding and the penalty imposed.
- Media release by the NHA on Thursday, 12 September 2024.