Racing NSW Stewards today considered an explanation tendered in writing by Mr Gary Hennessey, trainer of Ocean Park (a scratching on race morning from the David Jones Australian Derby), concerning an article which appeared in the Waikato Times under the heading “Hennessey Suspects Foul Play to Blame”.

Mr Hennessey today advised Stewards that he was contacted by a reporter, Mr Aidan Rodley, the author of the article and that whilst the reporter put to him that Ocean Park was "got at" he (Mr Hennessey) did not at any time agree with such proposition.

Mr Hennessey advised Stewards Ocean Park suffered a "ricked off-fore fetlock" in his box overnight which brought about the colts scratching from the Australian Derby.

Mr Hennessey made the point that he had been well-treated and had no wish to place any slur on the persons who had accommodated his horse in Sydney.

The explanation of Mr Hennessey was accepted, however, he was reminded of his obligation to be cautious in respect to his dealing with such serious assertions so as his actions cannot be viewed as being complicit in the image of racing being unfairly and unnecessarily tarnished.