Rhys' defence is hilarious (from Facebook I think):
Hi all, thought I would post this to provide some clarity as to the events that unfolded last night. Firstly, let me be clear, no shoe was deliberately thrown at a horse during any race, & I have the utmost respect for the racing community and all those involved. It was simply unfortunate timing. I was having a light hearted wrestle with a young teammate, oblivious to what was happening around us. What transpired was a shoe being thrown which unbeknown to us was unfortunately at the same time the horses had made their way around the course. Granted, it was stupid to start with but rightly or wrongly, I show care in ways others may not understand. I would like to sincerely apologise to the owners, trainers and especially the drivers involved as to the possible worst case scenario that could have eventuated. Security footage of the event will support what actually happened. Media being media, things can be misconstrued rather easily. I also wish to apologise to my football club & to anyone else that took offence to what happened, it was not my intention and was quite simply boys being boys. Thanks to all those that know my character and the support I have already received. Lastly, I will be making a donation to the ‘Off the Track’ foundation which undertake great work in the industry here in WA. Appreciate hearing me out
Clearly innocent... Last time I had a wrestle with someone a couple of shoes also went flying quite a few metres, with a delay between them and they also landed at exactly the same direction and distance each time. If there is one thing you aren't paying attention to at the races, it's when the horses are racing... nobody ever notices them. It's science people, people wrestle, shoes go flying, horses that nobody is watching get put in considerable danger. #barefootisthewaytogo
His story is so far fetched. Of course boys being boys is a reasonable reason to forgive all mishaps!