The National Horseracing Authority of Southern Africa confirms that at an Inquiry held in Gqeberha on Friday, 25 July 2025, Jockey G Lerena was charged with a contravention of Rule 62.2.7. The particulars being that as the rider of TIME FOR LOVE, he failed to ensure that he did not cause interference to ROYALS (C Little) and LUNA HALO (R Fourie) when he shifted inwards at the 450m in Race 7 at Fairview Racecourse on 11 July 2025. 

Jockey Lerena did not attend the Inquiry, as he is a Johannesburg-based rider and did not have any carded rides at the Fairview race meeting on 25 July 2025. Furthermore, he had pre-booked chiropractor and physiotherapist appointments, with proof of these subsequently submitted to the Inquiry Board. 

In terms of Rule 79.3, the Inquiry proceeded in his absence. Given the circumstances, the Inquiry Board entered a plea of not guilty on his behalf. After considering all the evidence presented, Jockey Lerena was found guilty of the charge. 

In determining an appropriate penalty, the Board took into account the evidence, both aggravating and mitigating factors, as well as Jockey Lerena’s disciplinary record in relation to this type of offence. Accordingly, a penalty of a suspension from riding in races for a period of seven (7) days was imposed. 

Jockey Lerena has the Right of Appeal against both the finding and the penalty imposed. 

A D HYDE

RACING CONTROL EXECUTIVE