Manawatu HRC 12 February 2026 – R7 – Geoff Martin

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 7, the “MASONIC HOTEL HANDICAP TROT”, Mr Wallis presented an Information charging Mr Martin, the Driver of KISS MY PIXEL, with a breach of the Whip and Rein Regulations and Rule 869(2), in that he used his whip with more than a wrist flicking motion during the run in the home straight.

Mr Martin admitted the charge.

The race films illustrated by Ms Greig depicted Mr Martin vigorously using his whip several times in the home straight on KISS MY PIXEL, by striking the horse with raised arm and clearly more than a wrist flicking motion.  The horse finished 4th in the 6 horse field.

DECISION:

As the charge was admitted, it was deemed proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Wallis advised that the breach by Mr Martin was at the low end and that a fine of $300 or suspension of 3 days was appropriate.  Mr Martin submitted that he would rather be suspended than fined.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

In keeping in line with the Penalty Guide and Mr Martin’s preference to be suspended rather than fined, the Adjudicative Committee deemed a suspension to be the appropriate sanction on this occasion.

CONCLUSION:

Accordingly, Mr Martin’s Licence to drive was suspended for 3 days, namely on the 19th, 20th and 24th February 2026.