Jockey Gets Banned for Seven Years for Breaking Betting Rules

Horse racing officials found David Walker guilty of throwing a race, in order to win a bet on a rival horse.

New Zealand’s Racing Integrity Unit (RIU) thoroughly analyzed the case of David Walker, who placed a wager on a rival horse during a race he was participating in. The board concluded that the jockey made sure his horse was going to be beaten, in order to win the bet.

While such regulations are not detailed in New Zealand gambling laws, the horse racing industry does have a few guidelines and a code of conduct which need to be respected, and rules say jockeys are only allowed to bet on their own horses.

After hearing the charges, the Juridical Control Authority ruled that Walker was guilty. As a punishment, the jockey has been disqualified for seven years and fined NZ$3,000 (EUR1,894/$2,439).

Sports integrity, a priority for officials

The strong penalty should teach jockeys a lesson about trying to cheat online and mobile betting scores. In addition, the case also made officials take a closer look at the current racing rules for jockeys, and consider banning them from wagering on horse races.

RIU general manager Mike Godber told reporters: “Mr Walker’s actions threatened the very fabric of NZ racing and the strong penalty applied by the JCA panel sends a signal that the industry holds the integrity of racing at the highest priority.

These processes and the penalty imposed will act as a deterrent to anyone contemplating similar actions.”