Racing NSW Disqualifies Owner for Threatening Texts: A Case Study
A racehorse owner has been disqualified for 18 months by Racing NSW for sending threatening texts referencing the Hells Angels. John Georgatsoulis, who previously owned a share in the sprinter Overpass, was removed from ownership in July and sent threatening messages to Scott Darby, the syndicate's managing director, in October. The messages contained improper language, threats of physical harm, and references to the Hells Angels motorcycle club. Racing NSW conducted an investigation and charged Georgatsoulis with conduct detrimental to the interests of racing for his aggressive and threatening behavior.
Georgatsoulis failed to attend the initial hearing and was issued a further charge. Despite being directed to appear before an inquiry on November 3, he did not show up, leading to the inquiry proceeding in his absence. As a result, he was disqualified for 18 months starting from November 10 until May 10, 2027. Overpass, the sprinter owned by Darby Racing and trained by Bjorn Baker, finished fourth in the Everest race despite the controversy surrounding Georgatsoulis' behavior.