Jockey wants ban for abuse

GROUP 1-winning hoop Katelyn Mallyon has called for racetrack bans for punters who spit at or hurl obscenities at jockeys, saying there had been a sharp rise in hostility at big race meetings.

Mallyon has become increasing concerned by the level of anger directed at jockeys, highlighted by an unsavoury incident at Moonee Valley last Friday night when Craig Williams was allegedly spat at by a racegoer after his ride on Vega Magic in the Manikato Stakes.

“It’s definitely getting worse,” Mallyon said.

She said the punter who allegedly spat in Williams’ direction last week threatened to get physical with the champion jockey before backing down.