Racing: Walker banned for seven years

Kiwi jockey David Walker. Photo / File.

Kiwi jockey David Walker was today disqualified from racing for seven years and ordered to pay costs of $3000 after being found guilty of betting on a horse he was riding against.

The charges were heard by the Judicial Control Authority (JCA), an independent statutory body established under the Racing Act.

Racing Integrity Unit general manager Mike Godber said the RIU was very pleased with the result.

"Mr Walker's actions threatened the very fabric of NZ racing and the strong penalty applied by the JCA panel sends a signal that the industry holds the integrity of racing at the highest priority.

"The message is clear, serious breaches such as this case will have severe consequences for those involved.

"The Walker case serves to illustrate the effectiveness of the RIU's systems of surveillance of racing and betting and its investigation processes. These processes and the penalty imposed will act as a deterrent to anyone contemplating similar actions."