The National Horseracing Authority confirms that at an Inquiry held at its offices in Johannesburg on 28 August 2019, Trainer L J Erasmus (Jnr) was charged with a contravention of Rule 72.1.8, in that as a licensed Trainer, he accepted training fees for the horses PRESS MY BUTTON and GHOSTRIDER from a person that is not a registered Owner with The National Horseracing Authority of Southern Africa.

Trainer Erasmus (Jnr) pleaded guilty to the charge and was found guilty of the charge.   

In determining a suitable penalty, the Inquiry Board took into account all evidence that was led at the inquiry and ruled that he be fined the sum of R20 000, of which R15 000 is wholly suspended for a period of one year, on condition that he is not found guilty of a contravention of this Rule during that period.

Trainer Erasmus (Jnr) has the Right of Appeal against the penalty imposed.