Evan Williams will no longer hold the licence as a racehorse trainer after being convicted of assaulting a dog walker on his property. His wife, Cath Williams, who has been his assistant trainer since 2003, has taken over responsibility for the yard’s horses and staff.
Williams had been scheduled to train two horses at the Cheltenham Festival this week, including Libberty Hunter in the Queen Mother Champion Chase on Wednesday. However, following his conviction, Cath Williams will now lead the yard.
A British Horseracing Authority spokesperson stated: “The BHA has been in contact with Evan and Cath Williams since yesterday’s court verdict. By mutual agreement, Evan Williams has ceased to be a licensed trainer, and Cath Williams has assumed the licence and the responsibility for the horses and staff.”
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The conviction stems from an incident on December 4, 2024, when Williams was found guilty by a Cardiff Crown Court jury of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. He repeatedly struck 72-year-old Martin Dandridge with a hockey stick during a night-time assault on his land.
Williams’ defense counsel, David Elias KC, has requested a delay in sentencing to prepare reports and allow Williams time to make arrangements for the management of his racing business in case of imprisonment. Recorder Angharad Price has granted conditional bail and scheduled sentencing for April 14.
Currently, Williams is not disqualified from being present at the yard located in Llancarfan, South Wales.