Leading Wagga trainer Trevor Sutherland faces an uncertain future after being suspended by Racing NSW stewards.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
The six-time Southern District Racing Association (SDRA) premiership-winner has been suspended, effective immediately, as a result of horses he trained allegedly being slaughtered.
In a letter Sutherland sent to owners on the weekend, he wrote that he will acknowledge that he 'unintentionally and unknowingly' broke the rules around the re-homing of retired racehorses but strongly denies he sent horses to a third party with the expectation that they would be euthanised.
Racing NSW chairman of stewards Marc Van Gestel confirmed Sutherland had been suspended but was unable to provide further comment on Monday.
Sutherland insists he has 'nothing to hide' but could not offer further comment at this stage in proceedings.
Sutherland told owners that he understood the horses were going to be re-trained for 'other equine pursuits' and would have found another home had he known they were likely to be killed.
He also stands by his clean record after more than 20 years as a trainer.
IN OTHER NEWS
"I stand by my long record of horse welfare, having successfully rehomed hundreds of horses in my more than 20 years as a licensed trainer," Sutherland wrote to his owners.
"I have never before been suspended or faced charges and I take pride in our horses' wellbeing, which I believe is well demonstrated by the longevity many through my stable have enjoyed on the racetrack and retiring sound thereafter."
Sutherland had nominated six horses for Thursday's showcase meeting at Wagga, including Real Key and Gentleman Max in the $35,000 Ian Reid Sprint (1000m), but is unable to start them.
A date for an inquiry has not been set.
