Auckland TC 10 November 2023 – R8 – Andre Poutama

ID: RIB29678

Respondent(s):
Andre Poutama - Driver

Applicant:
Mr S Renault - Stipendiary Steward

Adjudicators:
Adam Smith

Persons Present:
J Craig (observer)

Information Number:
A18291

Decision Type:
Race Related Charge

Charge:
Contact with track marker

Rule(s):
869(7A)(a) - Riding/driving infringement

Plea:
Admitted

Animal Name:
HAIL LUCIUS

Code:
Harness

Race Date:
10/11/2023

Race Club:
Auckland Trotting Club

Race Location:
Alexandra Park - Cnr Greenlane West & Manukau Road Greenlane, Auckland, 1051

Race Number:
R8

Hearing Date:
10/11/2023

Hearing Location:
Alexandra Park

Outcome: Proved

Penalty: Driver Andre Poutama is fined $100

BACKGROUND:

Following the running of Race 8,  Stipendiary Steward, Mr Shane Renault presented an Information alleging a breach of Rule 869(7A)(a) by Driver, Andre Poutama.

Mr Poutama confirmed he understood the Rule and the charge and confirmed he admitted the breach.

Rule 869(7A)(a) provides:

(7A) Every driver who moves inwards shall ensure:

(a) that contact is not made with any track marker.

EVIDENCE:

Mr Renault exhibited the video of the horses entering the final straight. He identified Mr Poutama racing 3 back on the markers being held up for a run.  Shortly after, Mr Poutama took a marginal run and made contact with 3 track markers.

Mr Renault said that there was no advantage gained by Mr Poutama as a result of striking the markers.

Mr Poutama made no submissions in regard to the incident.

DECISION:

The breach is admitted and therefore deemed proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Renault stated that Mr Poutama had been issued with a warning the previous week, hence the charge being presented today. He said the Stewards would be seeking a fine of $100.

Mr Poutama made no submissions on penalty.

REASONS FOR PENALTY;

This type of incident is soon to be covered by the MIN regime and the Adjudicative Committee considers a $100 fine appropriate.

CONCLUSION:

Driver, Andre Poutama is fined $100.

Decision Date: 10/11/2023

Publish Date: 14/11/2023