THE release by Caymanas Track Limited (CTL) that allegations have been made regarding an incident which occurred on Monday, October 21, 2013 (Heroes’ Day) in the seventh race, involving the horse Morebulletstofire ridden by Shane Ellis, is very strange. Morebulletstofire, racing for the first time in a three-year-old maiden event, went off as the overwhelming 2/5 favourite, but contrary to her rather unusual name fired only blanks, failing to finish the race won by Greater Glory.

The release further stated that “due to the nature of the allegations being made, the management of the company has referred the incident to the Jamaica Racing Commission (JRC) for an immediate and thorough investigation. In the interim the board and management are undertaking its own investigation and where evidence of race fixing is found, the strongest possible action will be taken against anyone involved. We, however, await the outcome of the investigation from the Jamaica Racing Commission.”

All matters pertaining to breaches of the Rules of Racing, whether race fixing or otherwise, squarely fall under the portfolio responsibility of the regulatory body, which is the JRC. While we have absolutely no problems with the promoting company, CTL, bringing to the attention of the JRC matters which it deems necessary for the protection of punters, we disagree with the method, that of an open release to the media. Further, by alluding to ‘race fixing’, the conduct of a CTL investigation, and where evidence of race fixing is found the strongest possible action will be taken; action by whom? Unless the Rules of Racing have changed, the only entity in the sport of horse racing with the powers to take disciplinary measures against any licensed professional is the JRC.

The CTL release was poorly constructed and should have been a private letter to the JRC. I dare to suggest the following content of a letter from CTL to the JRC on this issue.