The National Horseracing Authority of Southern Africa (NHA) confirms that at an Inquiry held in Durban on Tuesday, 15 July 2025, which was adjourned and reconvened on Monday, 21 July 2025, Trainer Gareth van Zyl was charged with a contravention of Rule 72.1.18.  The particulars being that, as a licensed Trainer, he verbally abused a licensed official involved in the administration or control of racing during a telephone conversation on Tuesday, 17 June 2025. 

 Trainer van Zyl pleaded not guilty but was found guilty of the charge.  

After considering the evidence presented, as well as Trainer van Zyl’s record in relation to this type of contravention, the Inquiry Board imposed a fine of R10 000 (ten thousand rand) of which R5000 (five thousand rand) is wholly suspended for a period of two years on condition that he is not found guilty of a similar offence during that period.  

Trainer van Zyl has the Right of Appeal against both the finding and the penalty imposed.

Enquiries: 

A D HYDE

RACING CONTROL EXECUTIVE