Matamata RC 20 September 2023 – R2 – Maria Sanson

Evidence

Mr Dooley demonstrated from the video that Ms Sanson angled her horse STYLISH RED outwards when insufficiently (barely one length) clear of CANDYFLIP, which was checked near the 150 metres, GROOMSMAN also being inconvenienced in the incident.

Mr Harris and Ms Sanson accepted the evidence and noted that she needed to have shown more patience in her ride.

Decision

The charge was admitted so is proved.

Submissions for Penalty

Mr Dooley advised that Ms Sanson had had 171 rides in the past 12 months and had no prior breaches of this Rule. He noted to her credit, she had admitted the breach, which the Stewards determined to be in the low to mid-range.

Mr Harris, on behalf of Ms Sanson, noted her clear record and that she had been riding for 2 years. He considered that she was an excellent student who learnt quickly.

Reasons for Penalty

The Adjudicative Committee after considering all the evidence, determined the breach to be in the low to mid-range and took as a starting point, a suspension of 6 race days. This is reduced by 1 day to 5 race days, due to Ms Sanson’s clear record for the last 12 months.

Conclusion

Ms Sanson sought a deferment for the commencement of the penalty until after the Rotorua Race Meeting on Sunday 24 September, as she had rides committed for that day. The Adjudicative Committee agreed to the deferment with the 5 day suspension therefore commencing on 25 September and concluding on 1 October (inclusive).