From racingandsports.com.au

Probe into bet taken on dead horse
Wednesday, 27 September 2006:

An investigation has been launched into why South Australia's TAB took a bet on a horse who had been dead for more than two weeks.

Port Lincoln horse Chickaloo was put down on September 9 after shattering a front leg at Adelaide's Cheltenham racecourse.

But that did not stop the TAB taking a bet on the horse on Tuesday for the $600,000 Epsom Handicap at Randwick on October 7.

Chickaloo was listed as a $201 chance to win the Epsom, one of Australia's major races.

Port Lincoln punter Tom Rush placed the bet as a joke, knowing full well that Chickaloo was dead.

"I knew the horse was put down and I thought it was strange to see it in the market," he said.

"So I went to the TAB to see if they'd take my money."

Gambling Minister Paul Caica said an investigation had now been launched.

"I was concerned to read that a bet was still being taken for a horse that died almost three weeks ago," Mr Caica said.

"An investigation was immediately put in train this morning by the office of the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner which is contacting the SA TAB and racing industry bodies.

"It's expected this investigation will be expedited and I look forward to receiving the commissioner's report of his findings."

Mr Caica said the TAB had already indicated that it was not advised of the death of Chickaloo.

"The investigation will be looking into why this occurred," he said.

"I'm also advised that any punter who backed this horse after its death will receive a refund from the TAB."

In the case of Mr Rush, that means he can claim back his $5 investment.