By Jon Lees
France: A stablehand has been banned from all racetracks in France until September after she kicked a horse in the belly during a race meeting.
The incident was picked up by the Sky Sports Racing cameras covering the fixture at Moulins, which is in the Auvergne region in central France.
The horse, a gelding called Gag Du Boulay, is being held by a groom and another is wiping the horse down when she suddenly delivers a sharp kick with her right foot to the horse’s stomach.
It was highlighted by Sun Racing on Twitter who commented, “Not a good look before the first at Moulins this morning.”
It was also brought to the attention of France Galop CEO Olivier Delloye who reported that prompt action was taken, resulting in a ban for Melinda Lefevre and a fine for trainer Bertrand Lefevre.
“Quick enquiry and quick decision too by the stewards,” said Delloye. “The lady in charge of the horse banned from racetracks until mid September + 1000€ penalty for her employer.”
• More about racing in France at the France Galop website
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