ROB'S SHOUT - CLARIFYING MY POSITION

By Robert Heathcote | Thursday, May 9, 2013

Robert Heathcote is the leading racehorse trainer in Brisbane. In this edition of 'Rob's Shout' - the personal blog of the multi-premiership and Group 1 winning trainer Heathcote looks back at what has been a traumatic week for the stable

Yes, I said I had written my last blog but, on reflection, I did want clarify my situation, remembering I have just been punished by the Racing Stewards for the very serious charge of ‘conduct prejudicial to the image, or interests, or welfare of racing’ for my comments on last week’s blog.

Point 1: I am not in any way offended by Larry Cassidy taking the ‘blog’ matter to the stewards. Cassidy was within his rights to do what he did. It’s no secret that Larry and I have gone our separate ways and it is certainly not the first time this has happened between a jockey and a trainer.

Point 2: Cassidy is a very successful jockey and he can continue to be so. He will go about his business as I will go about mine and we will leave it at that.

Point 3: I never meant any malice at all to Larry Cassidy or Tony Gollan and I am happy to get on with what I do for a living … and that’s running a racing stable and doing the best with the horses placed in our care.

Point 4: Cassidy taking me to the stewards is NOT the reason why I no longer wish to devote the time I have spent in the past promoting this industry and doing my best to push the wheelbarrow of racing.

Point 5: I was not happy to be charged and found guilty of bringing racing into disrepute and I know in my own heart that was the furthest thing in my mind in my role in an industry which is not a job but a lifestyle.

Point 6: I have to now come to terms with the charge and the punishment.

Point 7: I respect the office of the stewards and the job they have to do. However I do not have to agree with the sanction, but the fine will be paid and life moves on.

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This ‘indiscretion’ finding has not cost me a lot of money. It has cost me more than that.

It has cost me some passion for the industry!

There are probably some out there not unhappy to see me in a bit of strife. (I mean that as a general comment).That’s just a part of the competitive nature of the racing game.

I am also aware that there are some who are understanding of why I feel ‘aggrieved’ by this situation.

For now, I am happy for the stable horses to do the talking!

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I have a busy day ahead of me this coming Saturday.

Lots of runners and our little bulldog, Buffering, going for Group 1 glory.

He certainly deserves it.

Maybe down the track I will feel like getting passionate again!

Regards,

Robert

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