Wairarapa RC 6 February 2026 – R8 – Lisa Latta

EVIDENCE:

Prior to racing commencing, Mr Goodwin presented an Information charging Ms Latta with a breach of Rule 537(a) in that as the Trainer of KNICKERLESS in Race 8, failed to declare a Rider for that horse by the time (7.30am) required by the NZTR.

Ms Latta admitted the breach of the Rule.

The facts were somewhat unusual in that Ms Latta had accepted for KNICKERLESS to start in the fields for both Race 5 and Race 8.  Ms L Hemi was declared as the Rider of the horse in Race 5 and no Rider had been declared for the horse in Race 8.  KNICKERLESS was scratched by Ms Latta within the required time.  But a Rider was not then declared for the horse in Race 8.  This was the mistake made by Ms Latta, as she intended to declare Ms Hemi as the Rider (and did so after the required time).

DECISION:

As the charge was admitted, it was deemed proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Goodwin accepted that there were extenuating circumstances, but the Rule is intended to protect punters in that they are, before the designated time, entitled to know of the Riders of horses in a race.  Although Ms Latta has had previous fines of up to $400 for breach of this Rule, the Informant submitted that a fine of much less was all that was necessary.

Ms Latta accepted that approach.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

Accordingly, because of the extenuating circumstances (the same horse and same Rider intended in each race, but only one declaration), the Adjudicative Committee deemed a fine of $200 was appropriate on this occasion.

CONCLUSION:

Ms Latta is fined $200.