Riverton TC 26 May 2022 – R2 – Peter Hunter

Background:

After the conclusion of Race 2, Carriers Arms Hotel Mobile Pace, an Information A16533 was lodged by Stipendiary Steward Miss Rebecca Haley under Rule 869(2) Whip and Rein Regulations alleging that Mr Peter Hunter (TEDDY BAKER) used his whip with more than a wrist flicking motion in the home straight. Mr Hunter admitted the breach and confirmed that he understood the Rule.

Rule 869(2) reads as follows: 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.

Miss Haley asked Stipendiary Steward Mr Munro to highlight the incident using the appropriate video clips. Mr Munro pointed out that Mr Hunter had used his whip on several occasions more than in the wrist flicking motion in the home straight. Mr Hunter stated that he made an error of judgement and had reverted back to old habits. TEDDY BAKER in recent racing had not threatened a dividend bearing place but on this occasion he had battled into second place.

Decision:

The breach is upheld and therefore the charge is proved.

Penalty for Submission:

Miss Haley stated that Mr Hunter had 2766 lifetime drives, this season 55 and last season 143. Miss Haley stated that Mr Hunter had no previous charges against this Rule and she believed the breach was at the lower end of the scale. The Penalty Guide suggests a fine between $200-$400 fine for a first offence.

Mr Hunter stated that he would appreciate the lowest fine possible.

Reasons for Penalty:

The race films of the incident are very clear and there are no mitigating or aggravating factors in this instance.

A fine of $200 was deemed appropriate.

Conclusion:

The Adjudicative Committee fined Mr Hunter the sum of $200.