Prominent jockeys’ agent on drug charges

Jockey manager Glen Courtney, the rider’s agent for Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Kerrin McEvoy, has been charged by police with drug offences.

The Brisbane-based Courtney, who is also the agent for high profile Queensland riders Michael Cahill and Tegan Harrison, is due to face court on December 1.

Racing Queensland has suspended his licence while Racing NSW, where McEvoy is licensed, is awaiting details of the charges in the interests of due process.

“We have written to Glen Courtney requesting details and his solicitor is replying. Our investigators are also in contact with Police,” Keith Bulloch, Racing NSW general manager – regulatory, said.

“An assessment of his fitness and proprietary to hold a licence will be made by Racing NSW.”

Queensland’s chief steward Allan Reardon said Courtney had told them he was facing drug related charges.

“We informed him his licence to operate as a jockey manager would be suspended until a court hearing was finalised,” Reardon said.

“We have informed jockeys Cahill and Harrison about the situation.”

Courtney was disqualified by Racing Queensland stewards three years ago when he tested positive to cocaine and methamphetamine in his capacity as a trackwork ride for Nathan Tinkler’s Patinack Farm.