With regard to the inquiry into Jason Thompson's behaviour following the running of the 2008 Melbourne Cup final, below is the text of the relevant GRV press release. Firstly, let me make very clear that I am glad that this matter has been resolved and furthermore, that based on what I understand to have happened, that Jason Thompson has "escaped" with a $1,000 fine. Make no mistake about this. However, I can't help but think that the GRV has taken into account that they have contributed to the situation arising in the first place, otherwise the penalty may have been much greater. Just my view and I have to acknowedge, a view taken from "distance". Maybe other Forum members have a view and wish to express it.

Monday 29th December, 2008

Date of Hearing: 29th December, 2008
Venue of Hearing: Greyhound Racing Victoria's Office, West Melbourne
Name: Mr Jason Thompson
Suburb: Pearcedale (Vic)
Greyhounds Australasia
Rule (GAR) No: 86(q)
Offence: Engaging in conduct which was detrimental to the interest, image, control and promotion of greyhound racing.
Officiating Stewards: B. Williams, G. Fish

REPORT
Stewards on 29th December, 2008 conducted an Inquiry into alleged incidents between licensed Trainers – Mr. Jason Thompson and Mr. Darren McDonald, and Mr. Thompson’s alleged behaviour in general, following the running of Race 8 (Group 1 Schweppes Melbourne Cup) at the Sandown Greyhound Racing Club meeting on 27th November, 2008.

Stewards heard evidence from Mr. J. Thompson (Trainer), Mr. D. McDonald (Trainer), Mr. C. Scott, Ms. L. Fahry, Ms. H. Montgomery (GRV Stewards), a Greyhound Racing Victoria employee and a Sandown Greyhound Racing Club employee.

After hearing the evidence, Stewards charged Mr. J. Thompson with breach of GAR86(q) in that following the running of Event 8 at the Sandown GRC on 27th November 2008, he did engage in conduct which was detrimental to the interest, image, control and promotion of greyhound racing.

Mr. J. Thompson pleaded guilty to the charge.

Stewards found Mr. J. Thompson guilty as charged and fined him the sum of $1,000.

[NB. It was further noted by Stewards that Mr. J. Thompson expressed his extreme remorse and regret to the greyhound industry for his behaviour on 27th November, 2008 relative to this matter.]

For more information:
BRIAN WILLIAMS
CHIEF STEWARD
GREYHOUND RACING VICTORIA