Cheltenham winner to cease being licensed trainer after assault conviction | Racing | Sport
Cheltenham Festival-winning trainer Evan Williams has ceased being a licensed trainer following his conviction for assaulting a dog walker. Williams was set to be represented by Libberty Hunter in the BetMGM Queen Mother Champion Chase on Wednesday. However, his wife Cath will be the official trainer when the 10-year-old competes in the feature race of the day under jockey Sean Bowen.
On Monday at Cardiff Crown Court, Williams was found guilty by a jury of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. The court heard he had repeatedly struck Martin Dandridge, 72, with a hockey stick after he was found on his land at Llancarfan, Vale of Glamorgan, in December 2024.
Mr Dandridge, from Swindon, Wiltshire, sustained injuries including a fractured arm.
Sentencing was postponed until April 14 for reports and to allow Williams time to arrange alternative provisions for his racing business should he be jailed.
Defence barrister David Elias KC told the court: “In the circumstances of this case, bearing in mind he is 54 and of hitherto good character, we would invite the court to adjourn for a pre-sentence report so that this court knows everything it needs to about Mr Williams.
“He has his business and he will need to consider how that will be looked after, bearing in mind the risk of him losing his liberty.
“He would like some time prior to sentence, which he would have if the court orders a pre-sentence report, to put things in place in case it is that he loses his liberty.
“Indeed, he has very pressing commitments in the racing world this week, which he would like to fulfil if that is possible.”
Williams’ court appearance has been monitored by the BHA and alternative arrangements have been put in place at his stable, with his wife Cath Williams, also the assistant trainer, becoming the licence holder responsible for the yard’s horses and staff.
A BHA spokesperson said: “By mutual agreement, Evan Williams has ceased being a licensed trainer, with Cath Williams becoming the licence holder responsible for the yard’s horses and staff.”
Evan Williams is not disqualified and is permitted to be at the yard.
