On 9 January 2025, Harness Racing New South Wales (HRNSW) Stewards concluded an Inquiry that commenced on Wednesday 13 November 2024 in relation to a charge issued upon Mr Ben Sarina pursuant to Australian Harness Racing Rule (AHRR) 231(1)(e) as follows:
AHRR 231. (1) A person shall not
(e) assault
anyone employed, engaged or participating in the harness racing industry or otherwise having a connection with it.
The charge was issued by HRNSW Stewards in relation to an assault upon a former Harness Racing Steward.
In addition, as Mr Sarina was convicted of Reckless Grievous Bodily Harm at Cessnock Local Court, the Inquiry addressed the consideration of AHRR 267 by HRNSW Stewards as follows:
AHRR 267. (1) Subject to sub-rule (2) the Stewards may for such period and on such conditions as they think fit, disqualify a person who is found guilty of a crime or an offence in any State or Territory of Australia or in any country.
(2) Where a person is convicted of a crime or offence in any State or Territory of Australia or in any country and sentenced to a period of imprisonment the Stewards shall disqualify that person for a period that is at least equivalent to the actual sentence imposed.
(3) Sub-rule (2) shall apply where either part or whole of the period of imprisonment is suspended.
Following consideration of the evidence, including the defences and submissions provided by Mr Sarina, HRNSW Stewards found him guilty of the charge and invoked AHRR 267.
Consequently having considered the totality of the evidence, including submissions provided on behalf of Mr Sarina, he was disqualified for a period of seven (7) years in relation to the charge, to commence immediately.
In addition, HRNSW Stewards disqualified Mr Sarina for a period of seven (7) years pursuant to AHRR 267, to be served concurrently.
In considering penalty, HRNSW Stewards were mindful of the following;
- The circumstances of this matter, including the defences and submissions provided on Mr Sarina’s behalf;
- Mr Sarina’s lack of remorse;
- The seriousness of the injury caused in an unprovoked assault;
- Mr Sarina’s harness racing offence record;
- Mr Sarina’s not guilty plea.
Mr Sarina has appealed these decisions of the HRNSW Stewards.
For further information contact the HRNSW Integrity department (02) 9722 6655
