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Gavin Lerena celebrating Gr 1 glory at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth 24 hours before an incident at Turffontein saw his fortunes taking an about turn. (Picture: Wayne Marks)

Gavin Lerena’s moment of madness at Turffontein on Sunday had his fans scrambling to check whether there had been a jockey change before the race, because this was not in keeping with his known high standards of professionalism.

However, Jason Gates might also be in hot water, because some fans are agreeing after viewing online video available that Lerena’s sudden loss of temper was in reaction to being whipped by Gates.

Lerena’s good previous record and the above mitigating circumstance might help in the sentencing.

However, it can not detract from the seriousness of the incident in which he stood up in the saddle, either in retaliation or frustration, and whipped Gates on the back with full force three times.

The consequences could have been catastrophic i.e. Gates could have flinched and consequently fallen off.

In predicting the penalty Lerena will receive one has to consider whether the action was right or wrong, the penalty for such an action if it was wrong, and then the jockey’s previous record.

Lerena’s actions were seriously wrong, even if the mitigating circumstance makes it more understandable.

The NHA are viewing it in such a serious light they did not allow an “acknowledement of guilt” hearing, and instead it is going straight to an inquiry.

The NHA’s reaction is understandable because South Africa, as a member of the International Federation Of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA), are signatories of the International Agreement on Breeding, Racing and Wagering IIABRW) and the incident has made international news.

The video has gine viral as far away as Australia and New Zealand.

As South Africa are a Part I country in the IFHA, the world will be watching the inquiry process.

Looking at an international incident which was perhaps even more serious because the jockey fell off i.e. Christophe Soumillon elbowing Rossa Ryan off his horse in France, Soumillon was given a two month suspension.

Locally, Muzi Yeni took his hand off his left rein and placed it on Lyle Hewitson’s arm in a race at Hollywoodbets Greyville and was given a three month suspension.

Therefore, Lerena is predicted to be given a three month suspension with perhaps half of it suspended for five years owing to his good previous record.

If Gates is also found guilty of whipping Lerena it might earn a suspension too.

The incident happened in the second race, a Maiden Plate over 1400m.

Lerena was on the favourite Gimme A Storm, who had been backed from 28/10 into 18/10, while Gates was on the biggest outsider in the seven horse field, the 66/1 shot Blurred Vision.

It did not pan out well for Gimme A Storm from draw three as he flyjumped slightly and was then headstrong early before being caught one wide without adequate cover as Blurred Vision was only about half-a-width wide between the first and third horses.

Gimme A Storm turned for home alongside Blurred Vision and as the second favourite Green Street had stolen a march down the inside with the third favourite Great Notion chasing him, the feeling was that Gimme A Storm would have to acclerate past Blurred Vision and then have the space to use his action to its fullest to chase the leaders.

However, Blurred Vision held his line and Gimme A Storm could not shake him off, meaning, with what looked like a tendendy to want to hang inward, Gimme A Storm could not get into full stride.

There were also one or two bumps betwen the pair and Gates had changed the whip to his left hand, while Lerena had changed his whip to his right hand.

This meant their whipping actions were restricted and the whip stroke itself would have been at risk of striking the other embattled horse and jockey.

Just before Lerena loses his temper there appears to be a sideways strike from Gates.

It was not initially evident at normal speed, but in the slow motion it becomes evident and then switching it back to normal motion it becomes clear that one of Gates’ whipping strokes is directed with a sideways arc onto Lerena, who reportedly returned with a welt on his arm.

That the strike was hard and deliberately directed is lent credence by the fact that Lerena’s action happened immediately afterwards, at about the 200m mark, and appears to be a spur of the moment act of retaliation.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE RACE REPLAY

However, the above view comes from just looking at a Youtube video, whilst the pending inquiry will have full use of the patrol film from all angles and both jockeys will also be able to give their account of the unsavoury incident.

What makes the incident even more unfortunate is that Lerena has been in the form of his life and was a serious contender for the national championship, while Gates’ wife gave birth over the weekend, so a dampener would have been put on both families’ upbeat times.

Lerena released a public letter of apology later in the evening.

In the statement, Lerena says that following the incident that occurred during Race 2 at Turffontein, he feels that it is imperative to offer a formal statement to the racing community.

He adds that what took place is entirely inconsistent with his character, and he deeply regrets the incident. He extended his sincerest apologies to the owners and trainer of the horse, his sponsors, the racing fans and the relevant race day authorities affected.

He says that he wants to clarify that his reaction followed encounters and actions from Mr. Gates.

He notes that in any competitive sport, the instinctual response to a perceived threat, provocation or aggression can lead to a reaction that, under normal circumstances, one would not exhibit or do.

He acknowledged that his response has raised views and opinions. He says that the inquiry process will allow for all factors to be considered, during which time he will submit all the necessary factors in mitigation.

He tells that the sport of racing has a special place in his heart and that he holds it in the highest regard and remains dedicated to contributing positively to its reputation.

“I aim to uphold the values that make racing truly exceptional. Regrettably, today’s incident detracted from that commitment, and I am deeply remorseful for any disappointment caused to the punters, owners, trainer, fans and officials.To my supporters, your understanding and support is deeply appreciated. Once more, I apologise to all involved and reaffirm my commitment to upholding the integrity of our beloved sport,” he concludes.