NZ Metro TC 29 November 2024 – R7 – Zachary Butcher
ID: RIB48911
Animal Name:
DUCHESS MEGXIT
Code:
Harness
Race Date:
29/11/2024
Race Club:
NZ Metropolitan Trotting Club Inc
Race Location:
Addington Raceway - 75 Jack Hinton Drive, Addington, Christchurch, 8024
Race Number:
R7
Hearing Date:
29/11/2024
Hearing Location:
Addington Raceway, Christchurch
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Driver Zachary Butcher is fined $200
EVIDENCE:
Following the running of Race 7, Chief Stipendiary Steward Mr Nigel McIntrye presented an Information alleging Driver Mr Zachary Butcher crossed his reins late in the run home to preform a celebratory gesture.
Mr Butcher stated he understood the Charge, was conversant with the Rule and confirmed he admitted the Breach.
Rule 869(2) sub rule 4.7 provides:
A driver may not cross the reins except:
4.7.3 when activating gear; or
4.7.4 for safety reasons.
Mr McIntyre showed the final 100m of the race, to show Mr Butcher (DUCHESS MEGXIT) at approximately 20m from the winning post, cross his reins and give a thumbs up gesture to his group of Owners gathered adjacent to the finish line.
Mr Butcher made no comment.
DECISION:
The Respondent having admitted the breach, the charge was deemed to be proved.
SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:
Mr McIntyre stated Mr Butcher was warned under this sub rule at the Show Day Races on 15 November 2024.
Mr McIntyre said the Penalty Guidelines have a starting point of a $400 fine as a mid-range breach of the Rule at Group One level. He said Stewards believe this breach is in the lower range and a fine of $200 would be acceptable.
Mr Butcher made no submissions on Penalty.
REASONS FOR PENALTY:
Mr McIntyre has stated the Penalty Guidelines correctly.
The Adjudicative Committee agrees this is a low range breach of the Rule and considers a $200 fine to be fair and reasonable in the circumstances of this case.
CONCLUSION:
Driver Zachary Butcher is fined $200.
Decision Date: 29/11/2024
Publish Date: 02/12/2024