Geraldine TC 9 December 2023 – R4 – John Versteeg

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 4, Stipendiary Steward Mr Shane Renault presented an Information alleging a breach of Rule 869(3)(b) by Open Driver Mr John Versteeg.

Mr Versteeg stated he was conversant with the Rule, the Charge, and confirmed he admitted the breach.

Mr Renault played the video of the first 200m of the race to show Mr Versteeg (A ROCKN TO THE BLUES) drawn 7 at the mobile barrier and leaving the starting point strongly to move to a forward position. Mr Renault pointed to Mr Versteeg shift inwards when not sufficiently clear of LILY’S A STAR, drawn 6 (G O’Reilly) who had to check, causing it to gallop.

Mr Versteeg made no submissions.

DECISION:

The Respondent having admitted the breach, the charge was deemed to be proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Renault said Mr Versteeg had a warning under the Rule on August 4th, but has a clear record.

Mr Renault stated the Guidelines for a mid-range breach to be a $500 fine or a 2-day suspension.

Mr Versteeg said he would prefer a suspension over a fine.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Penalty Guidelines provide a $500 fine or a 2-day suspension for a mid-range breach, which the Adjudicative Committee assesses this case to be.

Mr Versteeg had stated he would favour a suspension over a fine and the Adjudicative Committee has no objection to delivering his sanction in this manner.

CONCLUSION:

Accordingly, Mr Versteeg’s Licence to drive in races is suspended from the conclusion of racing on 10 December 2023, up to and including racing on 15 December 2023.