Leading work rider Semela hit with lifetime ban
Filly was not run to the best of her ability at Vaal in February, inquiry board finds
The National Horseracing Authority has given one of the country’s leading work riders, Francis Semela, a life ban following an inquiry held at its headquarters in Johannesburg. Semela was found guilty of preventing the filly Kindavar from winning or being placed in a race at the Vaal on February 28. He did not allow her to run to the best of her ability or on merit. Semela, who was found guilty of a similar offence in 2017, pleaded guilty to the charge but has the right of appeal. The inquiry board said it viewed the offence “in a serious light and could not condone a ride of such a nature” and imposed a lifetime ban. Semela elected not to divulge any reasons explaining his ride other than his poor judgment. The case has caused considerable debate on social media, with racing newspaper the Sporting Post receiving more than 20 posts. Some agree with the punishment meted out by the authority and others do not. Here are a few of the comments: • “To take away the rider’s privileges fore...
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