Trainer fined for offensive language

TASMANIA’S premier trainer Scott Brunton yesterday copped a $3000 fine after he pleaded guilty to acting inappropriately at a Launceston awards function in September.

Stewards suspended $1500 of the fine, providing he does not reoffend in the next year.

Brunton pleaded guilty to a charge under Australian Rule of Racing 175 (A) that his conduct at the annual awards dinner at Country Club Tasmania was prejudicial to the image of racing.

He admitted he used offensive language in front of bar staff at the venue.

“I pleaded guilty to the charge and I accept the penalty imposed,” Brunton said.

“But I do not want to be labelled for what happened because it doesn’t truly reflect who I am.

“I apologised for what happened but now I must move on.”

Brunton has a team of about 60 horses in work at his training complex at Seven Mile Beach.

Tomorrow night in Launceston he will be hoping his star sprinter Lord Da Vinci can give him his third Newmarket Handicap in four years.

Hellova Street won in 2014-15. Last year he was a game sixth while new kid on the block Lord Da Vinci was a luckless fourth.

“I’ve had a lot on my plate this past week,” Brunton said.

“This inquiry hanging over my head hasn’t helped but hopefully Lord Da Vinci can have some luck ... because we all know winning a big race helps ease any pain.”