Maher rejects Azkadellia ownership allegations
TRAINER Ciaron Maher is maintaining his innocence despite being formally charged by Racing Victoria (RV) over the ownership of five of his horses, including Azkadellia.
Yesterday Maher was charged by RV after the governing body alleged that “Mr Maher knew, suspected or ought to have known” ownership bona fides of the 2016 Queen of the Turf Stakes winner and four other horses were not as they were presented to be.
Speaking at Caulfield track work on Tuesday morning, Maher said he was looking forward to presenting his position at the upcoming Racing Appeals and Disciplinary Board hearing.
“We strongly refute the allegations against me and look forward to presenting our position at the RAD Board hearing,” Maher said.
The charges relate directly to Azkadellia, Loveable Rogue, Hart, Mr Simples and Little Bubulu.
Stewards issue charges @cmaherracing dishonorable improper practice + conduct prejudicial image racing re horse ownership inc Azkadellia
— Bruce Clark (@snowyclark) May 15, 2017
The investigation into the ownership of Azkadellia – which was launched late in 2016 – has seen the rising six-year-old suspended from racing since September last year.
At the time the ban unfolded, the trainer was “shocked” his mare was under investigation.
“I am shocked and terribly-disappointed to have been informed of the stewards’ investigation involving Ben Connolly and Azkadellia,” Maher said back in September of 2016.
The daughter of Shinko King hasn’t raced since finishing second in last year’s Group 1 Tatt’s Tiara and Maher said it is an unfortunate situation that the group one winner is unable to race.
“She’s fine and is in the paddock but it is a shame,” he said.
@Carltontowin @Punters @ellertonzahra @kategoodrich @FHoulahan Crook of shit what would have have happened if azkadellia was winx do you reckon they would have barred it then
— MICHAEL (@MICKMICK456456) May 15, 2017
The charges against Connolly and Maher will be heard by the Racing Appeals and Disciplinary Board on a date to be fixed.