Jockey fined over inappropriate texts to teenager Tarnished Sheargold

NORTH Queensland jockey Scott Sheargold has been fined by stewards after pleading guilty to sending an inappropriate text message to a fellow racing participant.

Former jockey Danny Adam, the father of the racing participant, Charlotte Adam, who received the inappropriate text message, said he was appalled by Sheargold’s actions.

Charlotte, who is a regular strapper and stablehand at NQ race meetings, has only recently turned 16.

The Townsville-based Sheargold won the 2020 Cairns Cup earlier this year at Cannon Park.

Following an inquiry this week, acting Queensland Racing Integrity Commissioner Mark Ainsworth confirmed Sheargold’s fine.

“North Queensland jockey Scott Sheargold has pleaded guilty to engaging in improper conduct under AR228(B) for sending an inappropriate text message to a racing participant,” Ainsworth said. “Mr Sheargold was fined $2000 with $1000 suspended for a period of two years.”

Former race rider Danny Adam, who now rides trackwork, says he was appalled by Sheargold’s actions.

“He has been saying inappropriate things to her for some time,” Adam said. “I felt it was not good enough and we took the action of going to the stewards.”

The Townsville-based Charlotte is looking at becoming a jockey in coming years and is working with Mackaybased trainer-jockey Trinity Bannon towards her goals.

The 33-year-old Sheargold understands he made a significant mistake.

“Everyone makes mistakes and I really regret my actions,” Sheargold said.

“I would take back what I did had the chance.

“Hopefully people can see me for the person I am and not this mistake I have made.

“I would like to apologise to everyone involved.”

Sheargold is booked to take five rides this Saturday at Innisfail, including engagements in the feature Johnstone River Handicap and Innisfail Cup. if I