Did a Jockey Stop a Horse After Being Threatened?

In a shocking development within the horse racing community, jockey Dylan Kitts has found himself at the centre of a disciplinary hearing after admitting to intentionally preventing his mount, Hillsin, from performing at its best during a race at Worcester in July 2023. This situation arose following alleged threats from the father-in-law of Premier League footballer Ashley Barnes, leading to serious accusations against Kitts, trainer Chris Honour, and John Higgins, an associate of the horse's owner. The case has raised significant concerns regarding the integrity of racing practices.

Last updated: 15 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Dylan Kitts admitted to giving a "stopping ride" to Hillsin due to outside pressures.
• The disciplinary hearing involves Kitts, trainer Chris Honour, and John Higgins.
• Allegations include collusion to corrupt racing practices.
• Higgins, related to Premier League footballer Ashley Barnes, is excluded from the investigation for non-cooperation.
• Video evidence shows Kitts made minimal effort during the final stages of the race.

Background of the Incident

The race in question took place on 5 July 2023 at Worcester, where Hillsin finished third in a handicap hurdle event. This result raised eyebrows and prompted an investigation by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) when it was revealed that Kitts had acted contrary to the principles of fair competition. The BHA’s inquiry began after Kitts admitted during an interview in October 2023 that he had been influenced to ride the horse in a way that would limit its chances of winning.

Details of the Allegations

During the hearing, Louis Weston KC outlined the BHA's case, stressing that Kitts's admission was crucial. According to Weston, Kitts claimed he was coerced by Higgins, who has connections to the football world through his relationship with Ashley Barnes, a striker for Burnley FC. Kitts's comment about feeling threatened suggests that external pressures may have played a significant role in his decision-making during the race.

The Role of Phone Records

The investigation revealed an extensive communication history between Honour and Higgins, with over 70 phone calls exchanged during a critical period leading up to the race. In contrast, Clegg, the horse's owner, had only 35 communications with Honour. Notably, Clegg has not been implicated in the charges, which further complicates the narrative surrounding the incident.

Evidence Against Kitts and Honour

Video footage of the race is a pivotal piece of evidence. Weston pointed out that Kitts made only a token effort in the final furlong of the race, failing to use his whip, which is typically a sign of a jockey trying to ensure their horse performs optimally. This blatant lack of effort led to serious questions about Kitts's intentions during the race. Furthermore, accusations against Honour include encouraging Kitts to ride in a manner that would prevent Hillsin from achieving its best possible placement and subsequently misleading the stewards during the inquiry.

The Investigation Process

The BHA has stringent guidelines regarding conduct and integrity within horse racing. Following Kitts's admission, the authority took swift action to investigate the claims. The process involved gathering testimonies, reviewing race footage, and examining communication records between the individuals involved. Kitts, alongside Honour, is expected to present their case at the hearing scheduled for Tuesday, where they will have the opportunity to defend their actions.

Consequences of Corruption in Racing

This incident highlights a broader issue within the horse racing industry regarding corruption. The BHA is committed to maintaining the integrity of the sport and has put measures in place to deter unethical practices. Incidents like this can damage public trust in racing, leading to potential declines in viewership and financial support. The implications for those found guilty can be severe, including lengthy bans from the sport and reputational damage that can affect careers.

Potential Outcomes of the Hearing

As the hearing progresses, several outcomes are possible. If Kitts and Honour are found guilty of the charges, they may face sanctions ranging from temporary suspensions to lifetime bans from racing. The severity of the punishment will likely depend on the evidence presented and the extent to which their actions are considered to have undermined the integrity of the sport.

What’s Next for Kitts and Honour?

With the hearing imminent, Kitts and Honour must prepare their defence against the allegations. Both individuals have denied any wrongdoing, insisting that they acted within the rules of racing. The next steps will involve presenting evidence and witnesses that they believe will support their case. The outcome of this hearing could set a precedent for future cases of alleged corruption within the racing community.

Public Reaction and Industry Impact

The public response to the allegations has been mixed, with some expressing anger over the potential corruption in a sport they hold dear. The revelations have sparked discussions about the need for greater transparency and stricter regulations in racing to prevent similar incidents. As the case unfolds, the industry will be watching closely to see how the BHA responds to these serious allegations.

Conclusion: The Importance of Integrity in Horse Racing

This case serves as a reminder of the critical importance of integrity within horse racing. The sport relies heavily on the trust of its participants and spectators, and any breaches of this trust can have far-reaching consequences. As the hearing takes place, it will be crucial for the BHA and the involved parties to demonstrate their commitment to fairness and accountability.

What measures do you think should be taken to ensure integrity in sports like horse racing? #HorseRacing #IntegrityInSports #DylanKitts

FAQs

What is a "stopping ride" in horse racing?

A "stopping ride" refers to a situation where a jockey intentionally does not allow their horse to perform to the best of its abilities, often for external reasons such as collusion or pressure from others.

Who is Dylan Kitts?

Dylan Kitts is a jockey who has recently come under scrutiny for his involvement in a controversial race at Worcester, where he allegedly prevented his horse, Hillsin, from running at its best due to external threats.

What are the potential consequences of the hearing for Kitts and Honour?

If found guilty of the charges, Kitts and Honour could face severe penalties, including suspensions or bans from horse racing, as well as reputational damage within the industry.

What role does the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) play in this case?

The BHA is responsible for investigating allegations of misconduct within horse racing, enforcing rules, and ensuring that the sport maintains high standards of integrity.

Are there any other individuals involved in this incident?

Yes, John Higgins, an associate of Hillsin's owner, has also been implicated in the case. He has been placed on the BHA's exclusion list for failing to cooperate with the investigation.