Queensland greyhound trainer Darren Russell suspended for laying betting
The Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC) has today published its findings in regard to a steward's inquiry into a high-profile public greyhound trainer who bet against his own greyhound in contravention of Queensland greyhound racing rules.
QRIC concluded its inquiry into licensed trainer Darren Russell's actions involving a bet he placed on his greyhound, Baroski, during a race at the Ipswich Greyhound Racing Club on September 26, 2023.
The investigation uncovered evidence obtained by the Compliance and Assurance Stewards regarding the bet, which led to Russell being charged under Greyhounds Australasia Rule 166(2).
According to this rule, anyone directly involved in the nomination, training, or care of a greyhound commits an offence if they lay that greyhound in an event within 21 days.
To lay a bet is to back something not to happen, in this case to bet that Baroski could not win.
Lay betting only takes place on betting exchanges.
The only licensed betting exchange in Australia is Betfair.
You can learn more about lay betting, Betfair, and open an account at the betting exchange from the links on this page: Betfair Betting Exchange Review
Russell, who boasts twenty-two years of experience as a trainer in the racing industry, admitted guilt and presented his case to the stewards regarding the appropriate penalty.
Russell trained Deck Fifty Two to win the 2021 Group 3 National Straight Track Championship at Capalaba, and he also won the 2018 Group 3 Casino Cup with his greyhound, Fab Fit.
In determining what penalty was appropriate for Russell's actions, the stewards took into account factors such as his admission of guilt, his extensive tenure in the industry, his cooperative attitude during the inquiry process, and his clean record without any prior similar offences.
However, the stewards made it clear that having a license in the greyhound racing industry is a privilege, and participants must fulfill their obligations according to the Greyhounds Australasia Rules.
In order to preserve the integrity of greyhound racing, the stewards decided to suspend Russell's license for four weeks.
However, they also decided to waive this penalty for a period of twelve months under Greyhounds Australasia Rule 174(3), provided there are no breaches of a similar nature.
Russell was also informed about his right to appeal this decision.
This case serves as a reminder for all individuals involved in greyhound racing about how crucial it's to maintain sports integrity.