Racing NSW Stewards have inquired into the analyst’s findings relative to a urine sample provided by licensed jockey Nick Heywood after riding in races at the Murrumbidgee Turf Club race meeting conducted at Wagga Wagga Racecourse on Monday, 8 July 2019.
Mr Heywood pleaded guilty to a charge under AR139(1)(a) in that the sample taken from him was found upon analysis to contain substances banned under AR136.
Mr Heywood’s licence was suspended in full for a period of 10 months to commence on 8 August 2019 on which day he was stood down and to expire on 8 June 2020.
Mr Heywood was advised that under the provisions of AR283(5), should he complete a satisfactory period of professional counselling, the final three months of the suspension would be stayed allowing Mr Heywood to return on 8 March 2020.
Mr Heywood was further advised that, in accordance with AR139(4), he would be required to provide a urine sample free from any substance banned by AR136(1) prior to resuming any duties.
Mr Heywood was advised of his rights of appeal.