The National Horseracing Authority of Southern Africa (NHA) has confirmed that jockey Andrew Fortune has been cleared of a charge relating to his ride aboard NOTE TO SELF at  Greyville on May 9.

An independent Inquiry Board convened in Durban on June 1 to consider allegations that Fortune had failed to ride the horse in a competent and professional manner between the 400-meter and 200-meter markers during Race 4.

The inquiry was chaired by A. Vlok, with B.A. Reardon serving as a board member. Fortune, who was legally represented throughout the proceedings, pleaded not guilty to the charge brought under Rule 62.2.2.

After hearing evidence and considering submissions presented during the hearing, the Inquiry Board found Fortune not guilty.

The outcome brings an end to a matter that had attracted attention within racing circles given Fortune's prominence in the South African riding ranks.

In announcing the decision, the NHA reiterated that inquiries of this nature form part of its ongoing responsibility to safeguard the integrity of the sport and maintain public confidence in racing.

The Authority emphasized that the convening of an inquiry should not be regarded as a presumption of guilt, but rather as a necessary process to ensure that concerns are properly investigated and independently adjudicated.

The NHA said such proceedings are essential to upholding transparency and accountability within South African horseracing, regardless of the eventual outcome.