| Leading Sydney jockey Hugh
Bowman has decided to "forget racing for the time being" and will spend time
with his family after being suspended for nine months by Stewards on a drugs charge today. While confirming he will be taking a break from the saddle the rider
hasn't turned his back on the industry and he has vowed to return better for the
experience.
"This is something I'm not proud of and in a way, I am
glad I was caught early," Bowman stated today.
The 21-year-old, who is one of Sydney's brightest talents
in the local riding ranks, regrets what he says was a major err.
"Looking at the big picture, this has been a huge
mistake," he added.
Bowman confirmed he will be returning to his home town
where he will re-focus on the future.
"I'm heading home to Dunedoo, where my parents are,
and will forget racing for the time being."
"I am only 21 years of age and need to reflect on the
mistake and learn by it," Bowman added.
While revealing he was taking a break the youngster said
racegoers could expect to see him back better than ever in the future.
"I vow to come back keener, wiser, hungrier and more
mature for the whole experience," he said.
The formal inquiries into the sample will continue when the
analysis findings are returned at the end of the week.
At the inquiry Bowman pleaded guilty to two charged of
having breached AR81A(ii), which deals with the requirement of riders to be drug free when
riding in races and at track work.
Bowman's licence was suspended for nine months on each
charge however three months would be wiped if he was to complete "a satisfactory
period of professional counseling."
The young rider has been given a six week grace period on
the track riding suspension. He will be free to ride track work from July 7. |
