In a move that was predictable for the Jamaican racing community, the Jamaica Racing Commission (JRC) has announced the immediate removal of three stewards from panel duties for six months. The decision comes in response to the controversial disqualification of Tekapunt from the second race on October 21, 2024, which led to the abandonment of the remaining seven races on the day and a heated backlash from punters.
The disqualification of Tekapunt sparked widespread outrage among racing enthusiasts, who felt that the decision was unfair and inconsistent. The subsequent chaos, which saw rubbish bins hurled in the tunnel and winners' enclosure, raised serious concerns for the safety of horses, horsemen, and attendees.
In the aftermath of the incident, JRC Chairman Clovis Metcalfe convened a quick emergency meeting with his board members. After careful consideration, the board unanimously agreed that the stewards involved in the decision had failed to uphold the principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability.
"The three stewards working on that fateful day will be removed from panel duties immediately for six months," Metcalfe said. "This is a serious matter, and we must take decisive action to restore public confidence in the integrity of our racing."
In addition to the suspensions, Metcalfe announced that the entire steward body would undergo a mandatory refresher course and re-examination of their accreditation through the Racing Officials Accreditation Programme (ROAP). The JRC has invited Chief Steward Adam Coppola from Maryland Racetrack to facilitate the training.
"We believe that it is essential for our stewards to have the highest level of training and expertise," Metcalfe said. "By requiring them to re-sit the ROAP examinations, we can ensure that they are fully qualified and capable of making fair and impartial decisions."
One Response
The head streward should be a veteran jockey
U cnt hav ppl with no riding experience mak the final decision