Legendary jockey is hit with ‘pathetic fine’ for bizarre reason after winning his final race as fans hit out at the ‘fun police’
- Damien Oliver was fined after his big farewell victory
- Oliver rode Munhamek to a huge win at Ascot, Perth
- But he was fined for his celebration when he crossed the line
An Australian horse racing legend was handed a 'pathetic' fine after winning the final race of his extraordinary career.
Punters have criticized the 'nice cops' after Damien Oliver was fined for celebrating after riding Munhamek to victory at Ascot, Perth, this weekend.
Oliver bowed out in the best possible way after ending his career with three wins, but I was aboard Munhamek in a celebration that piqued the stewards' interest in Western Australia.
He was deemed to have 'made a celebratory gesture before passing the winning post', an offense for which he was fined $500 (£265).
Video footage showed the veteran jockey getting out of his saddle and punching the air before crossing the line.
Damien Oliver has been fined for celebrating after winning his final career race
Champion jockey says he couldn't think of a better way to end his career, but he was fined for celebrating too early
'Dreams become reality. That was unbelievable,” he said after the win.
Oliver is estimated to have won £133 million in prize money during his illustrious career, so the fine is unlikely to have a major impact on his bank balance.
'It was death or glory at the top of the straight.
'I had a bit of confidence in this horse, he could absorb the gaps when they came.
'It's a great win, an incredible feeling. I couldn't think of a better way to finish it.'
Oliver was denied a record-equalling fourth Melbourne Cup win when he rode Alenquer in last month's famous 3200m race at Flemington.
He admitted it had been a 'long goodbye' but took the spotlight to promote the sport.
“All this attention is not really in my area, but I understand,” Oliver said.
“It was overwhelming, but the crowd here at Ascot, what a great reception.
“I think this is the biggest crowd I've seen here. I will never forget the applause and the roar for the last three winners.'
Fans took to social media to blast the 'pathetic' decision.
One said: 'What a pathetic display from the Ascot stewards. Talk about spoiling a party.”
“The Ascot stewards clearly haven't read the room,” said another fan.