Manawatu HRC 16 November 2021 – R6 – Stephen Doody

ID: RIB5942

Respondent(s):
Stephen Doody - Driver

Applicant:
Mr P Williams, Stipendiary Steward

Adjudicators:
Mr N McCutcheon

Persons Present:
Mr P Williams, Mr S Doody, Mr K Coppins - Stipendiary Steward

Information Number:
A17257

Decision Type:
Race Related Charge

Charge:
Contravention of the Use of Whip Regulations

Rule(s):
869(2) - Contravention whip rule - Whip and Rein Regulations

Plea:
Admitted

Animal Name:
GREATEST SHOWMAN

Code:
Harness

Race Date:
16/11/2021

Race Club:
Manawatu Harness Racing Club

Race Location:
Manawatu Raceway - Pioneer Highway, Palmerston North,

Race Number:
R6

Hearing Date:
16/11/2021

Hearing Location:
Manawatu Raceway

Outcome: Proved

Penalty: Driver, Stephen Doody suspended for 2 days

EVIDENCE:

Following Race 6 Information No A17257 was filed with the Committee.  It was alleged that Mr Doody used his whip with more than a wrist flicking motion when driving “GREATEST SHOWMAN” in the home straight.

The film replays were shown with Mr Williams stating that Mr Doody struck his horse 12 times with more than a wrist flicking motion and said that it was more than mid-range.

Mr Doody said that he admitted the breach and that he understood the Rule and the Charge.

DECISION:

As the charge was admitted it was found proved (film evidence was compelling).

PENALTY SUBMISSIONS:

Mr Williams said that Mr Doody was warned regarding his whip use on 30 September 2021, referred to the Penalty Guide and recommended that a fine of $400 would be appropriate.

The Penalty Guide starting point is a fine of $500 or a 2-day suspension.

Mr Doody said he would prefer a suspension.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

Having regard to penalty submissions it was determined that a 2-day suspension was a suitable penalty.

CONCLUSION:

Mr Doody’s Drivers Licence was suspended from 18 November to the end of racing on 2 December 2021 (2 days).

Decision Date: 16/11/2021

Publish Date: 22/11/2021