Manawatu HRC 11 December 2025 – R1 – Andre Poutama

Background:

After the running of Race 1, an Information was lodged alleging a breach of Rule 869(3)(b). Details are as follows:

‘in that he allowed his filly to contact & puncture the sulky tyre of ‘Dream on Lou’  (K Coppins) near the 180 m’.

Rule 869(3)(b) provides – ‘No driver in any race shall drive – carelessly.

Mr Poutama confirmed to the Adjudicative Committee that he he understood the Rule and admitted the breach.

Evidence:

Stewards identified the incident by way of film. As the field approached the turn, JETASI was one back against the markers, being placed behind DREAM ON LOU, who was leading the field. The Respondent looked to take advantage of the passing lane to improve his horse. In moving, he is not sufficiently clear of DREAM ON LOU, striking and puncturing the sulky tyre of that horse. In mitigation, Stewards added that on straightening, DREAM ON LOU did shift in slightly, but was immediately corrected by Ms Coppins.

Decision:

As the charge was admitted, it was deemed proved.

Submissions as to Penalty:

Stewards conveyed that the Respondent’s record remains clear in respect of a breach of this Rule within the 6 month reference period. The Adjudicative Committee was referred to the current Harness Racing Penalty Guide, where a fine of $300 is noted as a starting point in circumstance of careless driving – hitting a wheel. Input as to penalty was not received from the Respondent.

Reasons for Penalty:

The incident is suitably identified by film. A fine of $300 was adopted as the starting point, with same reduced to reflect record, along with the aforementioned mitigation. A fine of $250 was deemed the appropriate penalty.

Conclusion:

Mr Andre Poutama is fined a sum of $250.