Banned trainer in the dark

A COMMUNICATION breakdown between Cairns trainer Alwyn Bailey and the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission resulted in seven horses being scratched from Wednesday’s meeting at Cannon Park.

Bailey had nominated his horses for the meeting, unaware that he was suspended.

QRIC commissioner Ross Barnett said it had suspended Bailey’s licence on October 23 after the Queensland Racing Crime Squad charged him with animal cruelty.

“Mr Bailey remains suspended until the outcome of the court proceedings against him,” Barnett said.

“Mr Bailey was notified via email of his suspension on the same day he was charged. A suspended trainer must not nominate their horses to run.”

The Cairns Post understands that Bailey did not receive the message from QRIC and did not receive a phone call from the racing watchdog.

Barnett said QRIC would examine its policy.

“As a result of this case, the commission will review its notification procedures and strengthen the advice protocols,” he said.

Bailey is still allowed to look after his horses at Cannon Park, but is not allowed to race them until his scheduled court appearance on November 11.

The 61-year-old trainer has the right to apply for stay of proceedings.

“A licensed person that is suspended is permitted to be on-course and is still responsible for the care of their horses through the duration of their suspension,” Barnett said.

“Mr Bailey’s horses nominated to race at Cairns (on Wednesday) were scratched due to his suspension.”

Meanwhile, tonight’s Cairns greyhound meeting has been abandoned due to a lack of nominations.

The club has battled with field numbers over the last few months.

The next meeting is set down for Friday, November 9.