Tinkler Quizzed Over Racehorse Departures

Nathan Tinker’s days as a prominent figure in Australian racing appear numbered after a truckload of Patinack Farm horses were removed from trainer John Thompson’s Randwick stables.

As reports emerged of a possible sale of Tinkler’s racing and breeding assets, Racing NSW chief steward Ray Murrihy confirmed he spoke to Tinkler about the welfare of his racing team.

Of the 18 horses Thompson has left in his Randwick stable, eight are owned by Tinkler.

“Upon receiving assurances from Mr Thompson, and after speaking by telephone with Mr Tinkler, the stewards are fully satisfied that the Randwick stable of Mr Thompson is continuing to function normally,” a Racing NSW statement said.

“Mr Thompson however, was asked to advise stewards should any further developments occur.”

Tinkler emerged as one of Australian racing’s biggest buyers in 2007 as he went on a spending spree at yearling sales in Australia and New Zealand.

But as his mining empire went into decline because of financial pressures, his racing interests also suffered.

Last year he was forced to sell All Too Hard, a potential goldmine at stud as a Group One winner closely related to unbeaten mare Black Caviar.

Patinack Farm was placed on the market in March, 2013.

– AAP

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