Racing bosses to probe verbal attack on jockey
Racing bosses have initiated an investigation after a jockey, facing potential dismissal, received chilling threats following a controversial ride. Rod Douglas, racing manager for billionaire owner Jonathan Munz, lashed out at rider Craig Williams, raising concerns about his performance.
'Ridiculous' Ride Invokes Wrath of Racing Manager
Douglas was furious after Williams gave superstar racehorse Giga Kick what he described as a "gut-buster" ride in the Group 2 McEwen Stakes. The four-year-old colt, already a multi-million-pound earner and poised to become the highest earning horse ever, missed the break and endured a hard ride.
Investigation Focuses on Remarks and Threats
Douglas's comments, coupled with his alarming threat towards the jockey, are now under investigation by Racing Victoria stewards. He voiced his frustrations in an interview with Radio Tab, stating, "I’d have strangled him with my bare hands, I’d have strangled him in the mounting yard. There’s no excuse for what he did."
Concerns Raised about Bigger Races
Douglas explained that the focus was not solely on winning the specific race but also targeting bigger races in the future. He emphasized that Williams was well aware of the horse's upcoming schedule, including the Premiere Stakes and The Everest.
Jockey's Tactics Admittedly Cost the Horse
Williams admitted after the race that his tactics had cost Giga Kick the victory. However, he claimed to have paid no attention to Douglas's remarks. Nevertheless, Douglas reiterated his criticism of the jockey and stated that the horse had been affected by the incident.
Possible Consequences for Jockey
Douglas hinted that Williams may face consequences for his actions. He stated, "It’s up to Jonathan, he’ll make a decision in the next couple of days whether Craig retains the ride or he drags him off. It’s up to him, he owns the horse and makes the rules."
Trainer Devastated by Incident
Giga Kick's trainer, Clayton Douglas, who is also Rod Douglas's nephew, expressed devastation over the incident. He emphasized the significance of the horse and the amount of work that had been put into training him. Clayton Douglas is now uncertain about the horse's future races and recovery process.
Uncertainty Surrounds Horse's Next Steps
The controversial ride has raised concerns about Giga Kick's upcoming races. The horse's recovery from the recent run may be jeopardized, and decisions about participating in the Premiere Stakes and the Everest are uncertain.
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