The National Horseracing Authority of Southern Africa (NHA) confirms that at an Inquiry held in Johannesburg on Wednesday 18 June 2025, jockey Gavin Lerena was charged with a contravention of Rule 62.2.7.

Gavin Lerena gets 7 days (Pic – Chase Liebenberg)
The particulars being that as the rider of BUFFALO STORM CODY, he failed to ensure that he did not cause interference to DREAMLAND (Craig Zackey) when he shifted out at the 150m during Race 8 at Turffontein Racecourse on 3 June 2025.
Jockey Lerena pleaded not guilty but was found guilty of the charge.
After considering the evidence presented, the Inquiry Board imposed a penalty of a suspension from riding in races for a period of seven (7) days.
Jockey Lerena was given the Right of Appeal against both the finding and the penalty imposed.
- Media release by the NHA on Wednesday, 18 June 2025.