Kaikoura TC 2 November 2025 – R10 (request for a ruling) – BETTERTHANBABE

Summary of Facts:

Following the running of Race 10, Chief Stipendiary Steward, Nigel McIntyre, filed an Information Requesting a Ruling under Rule 213(i)(j)” to determine whether BETTERTHANBABE was denied a fair start.”

Rule 213 (i)(j) provides:

Using available video footage, BETTERTHANBABE, was shown to have drawn 8, the outside draw, off the front line of the mobile barrier arm as the field commenced the score up to the start. It was observed that BETTERTHANBABE was behind the barrier arm throughout the score up and did not get into its correct position prior to the start being made, despite the urgings of Driver Wilson House.

Mr House gave evidence that there was a lip to the outside of the track, which he was aware and concerned of. He added that heading around the bend, there was a tractor and harrows to the outside of the track and again, was concerned about how much room there was for his drive. He also stated that the 2 runners who had drawn inside him, were out a bit from their correct positions in the lead up, which added to the situation.

Mr House stated that his horse hangs around this track and was reluctant to put too much pressure on the horse to get into the correct starting position. He also stated that he was wary after two incidents during the day, where he was unseated from his sulky seat.

The Decision:

The Adjudicative Committee carefully considered the evidence presented and relevant replays of the start of the race. The Adjudicative Committee was satisfied that BETTERTHANBABE was always back from its correct position throughout the score up and did not get into position prior to the start. Despite Mr Wilson’s evidence that he was concerned about the lip on the track, the tractor and harrows to the outside of the track as well as the horse’s tendency to hang, the Adjudicative Committee found that there was no tangible evidence presented that would prove BETTERTHANBABE was denied a fair start. The Adjudicative Committee also found that as the field turned into the back straight, the track widens and there was ample opportunity and room for BETTERTHANBABE to improve up to the gate and receive a start on the gate.

This Adjudicative Committee therefore ruled that BETTERTHANBABE did receive a fair start.