Racing NSW reopens investigation into Hugh Bowman, James McDonald Covid breach

Racing NSW stewards will reopen an investigation involving champion Sydney jockeys Hugh Bowman and James McDonald after both were alleged to have breached Covid-19 protocols while on a Queensland holiday earlier this month.

Bowman and McDonald were initially cleared by Queensland authorities and Racing NSW stewards of any wrongdoing after footage of the two jockeys appeared on social media and Channel 9’s A Current Affair competing in cane toad racing at a Port Douglas hotel two weeks ago.

It is understood Bowman and McDonald had permission to stay in Queensland and holiday after the border was slammed shut to those living in Sydney on June 25 due to the worsening Covid-19 outbreak.

But Queensland Police then considered more information relevant to the matter and have subsequently provided a new statement to racing authorities this week.

Marc Van Gestel, Racing NSW’s chief steward, confirmed on Tuesday night stewards will now “investigate the matter further” to determine if there is a need to interview either jockey again.

Bowman is taking a winter break with family but McDonald is back riding in Sydney and has a full book on the seven-race Canterbury program on Wednesday.

Originally published asCovid cane toads: JMac, Bowman not out of woods

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