The NHA inquiry into the much debated ride Andrew Fortune gave the Mike de Kock-trained Cherry Oh Baby has been concluded.
Public opinion when the verdict and penalty were released today varied wildy with some saying it was justified and one aficionado saying it was “ridiculous”.
Read the inquiry findings below:
The National Horseracing Authority of Southern Africa (the NHA) confirms that at an Inquiry held in Durban on Monday, 23 June 2025, Jockey A Fortune was charged with a contravention of Rule 62.2.2. The particulars being that as the rider of CHERRY OH BABY, he failed to ride this horse in a competent and professional manner in Race 1 at Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse on 7 May 2025.
Jockey Fortune pleaded not guilty but was found guilty of the charge.
After considering the evidence presented (which included a testimony by trainer Mike de Kock) the Inquiry Board imposed a penalty of a suspension from riding in races for a period of twenty-eight (28) days, fourteen (14) of which are suspended for a period of one (1) year. Further, a fine of R20 000 (twenty thousand rand) was imposed, of which R10 000 (ten thousand rand) is suspended for a period of one (1) year. The penalty of a suspension and fine are conditional on Mr Fortune not being found guilty of a contravention of Rule 62.2.2, within the stipulated time frame.
Jockey Fortune has the right of appeal against both the finding and the penalty imposed.
A D Hyde
Racing Control Executive
