Racing Victoria charges trainer over animal welfare issues
Racing Victoria stewards have issued eight charges against licensed trainer Richard Pinsent following an investigation into the care and welfare of horses under his supervision.
The charges relate to alleged breaches of multiple Rules of Racing, including three counts under AR 231(1)(b)(iii), three under AR 231(1)(b)(iv), and two under AR 232(b). The provisions cover obligations around veterinary treatment, proper nutrition, and compliance with steward directions.
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According to Racing Victoria, three of the charges allege Pinsent failed to provide adequate nutrition to horses including Dashingdaria, Gentacheeva and Specularite between May and September 2025. A further three charges relate to the treatment of a horse named Ivy, where Pinsent is accused of failing to follow veterinary advice across multiple periods between July and September 2025.
The remaining two charges allege Pinsent failed to comply with specific directions issued by stewards on August 6 and September 12, 2025.
The case will now proceed to the Victorian Racing Tribunal, where the charges are set to be heard on a date yet to be confirmed.
Racing Victoria has not indicated any interim penalties, with the matter to be determined through the tribunal process.
