FORMER Koroit trainer James McNamara will attend the Victoria Racing Tribunal hearing on October 21, to support jumps jockey Paul Hamblin but not to answer claims the milk bar owner prevented one of his horses to run on its merits.
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Racing Victoria stewards have issued charges under Australian Rules of Racing against jumps jockey Hamblin and McNamara following an investigation into the performance of Hornets' Nest in a hurdle at Casterton on June 29.
McNamara told The Standard he handed in his trainers licence more then a month ago after the charge was laid.
The stewards alleged Hamblin's riding of Hornets' Nest was contrary to rules in that he failed between approximately the 1200-metre and the 800m mark to improve his position and maintain contact with the field.
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They also alleged that between approximately the 800m mark and jumping the last obstacle, Hamblin did not ride his mount with sufficient vigour to improve their position.
The stewards also allege that McNamara's instructions to Hamblin prior to the race contributed to Hamblin's breach of the rules.
"I'll be going to the hearing," the former hobby trainer said. "I don't want to leave Paul high and dry. I feel very sorry for Paul. He's innocent. I will talk as a witness if I'm required. I've handed in my licence.
"I've just walked away from the racing industry. I'm only going to support Paul. There are some people who are disappointed that I've handed in my trainers licence but I'm over it all."
Hamblin, who has been riding for more than 30 years, rates his 2015 Warrnambool Galleywood Hurdle win on Stand To Gain as one of his career highlights.
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