Waikato BOP H 19 December 2024 – R1 – Crystal Hackett
ID: RIB49637
Animal Name:
IVANKA
Code:
Harness
Race Date:
19/12/2024
Race Club:
Waikato BOP Harness Racing Inc
Race Location:
Cambridge Raceway - 1 Taylor Street, Cambridge, 3434
Race Number:
R1
Hearing Date:
19/12/2024
Hearing Location:
Cambridge Raceway
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Junior Driver Crystal Hackett is fined $300
Summary of Facts:
Following the running of Race 1, the Respondent Crystal Hackett admitted a breach of whip rule 869 (2). The particulars of the charge are that Crystal Hackett used her whip in a continuous manner in the run home.
Rule 869 provides that:
(2) No Driver shall during any race use a whip in a manner in contravention of the Use of the Whip Regulations made by the Board.
Stipendiary Steward Mr Shane Renault used available video footage to demonstrate the breach. IVANKA driven by Crystal Hackett in 3rd position, used her whip in a continuous manner for the majority of the straight, while there was a slight pause around the 100m mark, there were not enough breaks between each strike.
In response, the Respondent advised the Adjudicative Committee that she viewed it as minor, had just returned from Australia where whip use is unlimited, and this was her first race back in New Zealand. She acknowledges this is not an excuse.
Decision:
The charge is admitted and therefore proved.
Submissions for Penalty:
Mr Shane Renault produced the Respondent Crystal Hackett’s record, which indicated a clear record for whip charges, however had been issued a warning regarding whip use at Manawatu on 21 November 2024.
Mr Shane Renault said that Stewards assessed the breach to be low-level, submitted that it be dealt with by way of $300 fine.
The Respondent submitted preference of a fine.
Reasons for Penalty:
After consideration of the evidence from all parties concerned and viewing the race films of the concluding stages of the race, the Adjudicative Committee assessed the breach as low-level.
A low-level breach is defined as when a driver inadvertently reverts to the old style (freehand, loose reining and or more than a flicking motion) but promptly takes corrective action to return to a compliant style.
A Low-level Penalty range is a $300 fine or 2-day suspension (first offence).
Having considered all factors, the Adjudicative Committee deemed a fine to be an appropriate penalty.
Conclusion:
The Respondent is fined $300.
Decision Date: 19/12/2024
Publish Date: 20/12/2024