RACING: Elsworth angry after Club reject appeal

TRAINER David Elsworth left Jockey Club headquarters in London in a dejected mood yesterday after failing in his appeal against a pounds 1,500 fine incurred over the running and riding of Wavertree Boy at Taunton last week.

His legal advisor warned that the depth of the trainer's feelings might force him to "consider his entire future" in the sport. Elsworth also forfeited his pounds 450 deposit money.

Barrister Graeme McPherson said after the hearing that Elsworth will consider taking the matter further, with the next stage of the process being an application to the Jockey Club's independent Appeal Board. Elsworth said: "I'll issue a statement over the weekend but I need some time to think about what I want to say."

McPherson added: "I know how disappointed David is with the result and he remains of the view that the horse was running entirely on its merits. He has always been disappointed in the ride the jockey gave the horse and he doesn't feel he has done anything wrong."