Rangiora HRC 25 August 2024 – R8 – Seth Hill

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 8, Stipendiary Steward Mr Matt Sole presented an Information alleging a breach of Rule 869(2) by Junior Driver Mr Seth Hill.

Mr Hill stated he was conversant with the Rule, the Charge and he confirmed he admitted the breach. Mr Hill was supported by Open Driver Miss Sheree Tomlinson.

Mr Sole played the race video to identify Mr Hill (PLAYING WITH STARS) racing in the trail position approaching the final bend. He said Mr Hill, as the field entered the home straight, has allowed his horse to drift out onto TAKE THE DEAL (J Dunn), locking wheels with this runner, both horses being pulled out of the race. Mr Sole said Stewards recognise Mr Hill’s horse was tending to run out, but referenced the video which showed Mr Hill steering his horse inwards away from Mr Dunn 40m earlier and the horse responding adequately to this shift.

Mr Hill said his horse has been awkward, running out, and when the leader kicked, and a gap appeared, his horse has tried to enter it, and it was difficult to stop.

Miss Tomlinson, who drove BIG MAMA MORRIS in the race, said she could see Mr Hill running out and knew he was never going to be able to take the passing lane. She said PLAYING WITH STARS was pocketed and when a gap appeared, the horse saw it before Mr Hill could do anything about it. Miss Tomlinson said it was just an unfortunate racing incident.

DECISION:

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

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Sole stated Mr Hill had driven 85 times this season and had a clear record under the Rule.

Mr Sole said a suspension commensurate with the Guidelines would be appropriate.

Mr Hill made no submissions on Penalty, other than to say any suspension could be taken immediately.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Penalty Guidelines provide a 3-day suspension starting point, when the breach causes interference which results in own horse and or another horse losing all chance.

The Adjudicative Committee, on assessing an appropriate Penalty, considered the following factors:

Mr Hill’s admission.

Mr Hill’s status as a Junior Driver.

Mr Hill’s clear record which, for a busy Junior Driver, is commendable.

The racing manners of PLAYING WITH STARS, which were obviously difficult for Mr Hill.

Accordingly, the Adjudicative Committee finds a 2-day suspension an apposite sanction in the circumstances of this case.

CONCLUSION:

Junior Driver Seth Hill is suspended for 2 days, from the conclusion of racing today, up to and including racing on 1 September 2024.