Jockey to appeal two-month suspension over sexual harassment
Licensed jockey Raymond Spokes is appealing a two-month suspension after Racing NSW stewards found him guilty of two sexual harassment charges involving a female racing industry participant.
An inquiry conducted at Coffs Harbour Racecourse heard evidence from Spokes, the female industry participant, licensed stablehands and a trainer. Stewards also considered a brief of exhibits containing interviews.
The charges arose from comments made by Spokes on April 13, where stewards alleged he directed two comments with sexual connotations toward the female participant in circumstances where a reasonable person would expect the remarks could cause offence, humiliation or intimidation.
A second charge related to another sexually suggestive comment made toward the same participant.
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Spokes pleaded not guilty to both charges, but stewards found him guilty on each count. They imposed a two-month suspension for the first charge and a one-month suspension for the second, to be served concurrently.
The suspension will run from June 26 to August 26. Spokes has since advised he will appeal the decision. Spokes, 48, is a vastly experienced jockey with nearly 1000 wins to his credit.
