A Racing Victoria inquiry into Damien Oliver’s admitted betting activities was being held this morning.
RV Stewards have disqualified the champion jockey for eight months with a further two month suspension.
On 1st October 2010, Oliver had placed a $10,000 bet on race favourite Miss Octopussy in a Mooney Valley race while he rode the second favourite Europa Point. It was revealed in the inquiry this morning that Oliver placed the bet with Queensland bookie Laurie Bricknell via punter Mark Hunter. Miss Octopussy had eventually won the race and Oliver had received $11,000 from Hunter.
The particulars of the charges were that Oliver used his mobile phone “in the area of the jockeys’ room” at Mooney Valley, and placing bet on a rival runner in a race he was riding in. Oliver has pleaded guilty to the two charges laid against him.
Racing Victoria Stewards said they weren’t in anyway questioning Oliver’s ride on Europa Point in the Miss Octopussy race. Chairman of the stewards panel, Rob Montgomery said they considered Oliver’s personal circumstances but also the seriousness of the offence when handing down penalty.
Oliver will be able to resume riding on 13th September, 2013.
By Owens Wong
