Winton HRC 9 November 2025 – R1 – Natasha Kyle

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 1, Chief Stipendiary Steward Mr Nigel McIntyre presented an Information alleging a breach of Rule 869(2) by Junior Driver Miss Natasha Kyle.

Miss Kyle stated she understood the Rule and the Charge and confirmed her admittance of the breach. Miss Kyle was assisted at the hearing by her farther Licensed Trainer Mr Alister Kyle.

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.

Mr McIntyre played the final 300m of the race, which clearly showed Miss Kyle using her whip continuously and in an uncompliant style.

Mr Kyle said many of the strikes were not directed at the horse.

DECISION:

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

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr McIntyre said the breach was at a high level and not a good look for Harness Racing.

Miss Kyle was remorseful and made no submission other than to ask for a deferment of any suspension until after the Invercargill meeting on 19 November, which was granted.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Penalty Guidelines provide for a 3-day suspension for a high- level breach, first offence.

The Adjudicative Committee contemplated uplifting this to a 4-day suspension, however, Miss Kyle was sincere in acknowledging her mistake, is a Junior Driver and it would have constituted approximately a month away from driving.

In considering all factors, the Adjudicative Committee finds a 3-day suspension is the appropriate sanction for the circumstances of the breach.

CONCLUSION:

Accordingly, Junior Driver Miss Natasha Kyle is suspended for driving in races from the conclusion of racing on 19 November, up to and including racing on 7 December 2025.