Track jumps on protesters

By NICOLE WILLIAMS
A JUMPS racing protest turned to violence on Sunday when a teenage protester was allegedly assaulted.
Ward Young, Communications Manager for the Coalition for the Protection of Racehorses, said an angry jumps fan lashed out at the 14-year-old girl.
“There was an angry jumps fan and he was mouthing of at us as he walked by and then pushed a sign into a young girls face,” he said.
Mr Young said there were only 40 protesters but Sandown Racecourse made it clear they were unwelcome.
“We were allocated a very small sectioned off area out the front of the main gates and there was a heavy police presence with six police cars,” he said.
“Our chief, Elio Celotto was evicted when he tried to film from around the side of the racecourse and Elio and myself were also issued with legal notices stating that we will not be permitted entry into Sandown if we are planning on disrupting the event.”
Jake Norton, spokesperson for Melbourne Racing Club said the protest was conducted with mutual respect between the Coalition for the Protection of Racehorses and MRC.
“A location at the front of the racecourse was made available to protesters to conduct their activities peacefully, as is always the case,” he said.
“Jumps racing on the day was conducted very successfully and that is the ultimate prerogative of the club.”
Mr Young said the Coalition for the Protection of Racehorses felt it was a successful protest.
“We know our presence is getting to Sandown and that is evident by them trying to keep us out,” he said.
“We must be affecting bottom line which means we’re closer to a victory.”
“We’re glad no horses fell or were injured but unfortunately the same can’t be said for the rest of the year.”