Equine mistreatment in the equestrian world has grown to be a pressing issue. The sport involving a recognizable past that embraces these majestic creatures is always on the edge of falling into scrutiny with a single misstep. And as the spectators tune in for the thrill and the excitement the match offers, ethical concerns linger unnoticed on the backstretch.

According to the reports, over 400 breaches were reported in 2022 alone. The governing bodies, however, have frequently stepped up to enquire into matters where the situations seem unchecked. Following along, earlier this year, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) stumbled upon one such case; setting precise rulings against the equestrian involved.

Equestrian governing body imposes regulations

The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario aims to control and regulate horse racing in all its forms in Ontario; under the public interest. The organization thus dived into an investigation concerning the trainer, Anthony Beaton. The AGCO reported that the organization took a step ahead after receiving complaints that did not end in favor of Mr. Beaton.

The inspection conducted by AGCO revealed that the harness trainer had used excessive force on the equines; reports Harness Link. The organization ruled that the action hindered the safety and well-being of the horses. Thus, to maintain and safeguard the integrity of horse racing, AGCO suspended Anthony Beaton on the terms of prejudicial conduct; stating the rule violations of Rules 6.01(c) and 1.09 on the 13th of October.

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The trainer, who has been in the industry for well over 2 decades, hasn’t had a public presence as of yet. The trainer however stands eligible to file an appeal following the matters of the case.

A detailed look into the proceedings

Anthony Beaton has owned a stable in Ontario since 2017. Prior to this, Anthony spent 10 years working for Casie Coleman, who has been named trainer of the year on multiple occasions. Keeping up, this year alone, Anthony pocketed 80 wins from 467 starts. However, it was later last week that Anthony came under scrutiny over scratches incurred by 6 of his horses; four of them in Ontario Sires Stakes Gold Super Final events.

I’m not in the loop about what transpired,” Buurma, the operator at Beaton’s stable base told Harness Racing Update. “I was made aware that there was an incident near the barns [late last week], but I was not present for it and don’t know any of the details of what transpired, at all.” Speaking about Beaton, he further added, that the trainer never seemed to have any problem with getting any help and that he is a ‘stand-up guy in the industry.’

AGCO states that a licensed horseracing participant issued a Ruling under the Rules of Racing has the right to appeal AGCO’s action to the Horse Racing Appeal Panel (HRAP). Under the concerned rule, Beaton still holds a chance to file an appeal. In case the persisting rulings stay afloat, the horses under the trainer may be transferred to another under the AGCO guidelines.

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