Akaroa TC 5 December 2021 – R2 – Ian Cameron

SUMMARY OF FACTS:

Following Race 2, The Famous Grouse Trot, Driver Ian Cameron was charged that, as the Driver of GINA’S MAJESTY in the race, he shifted that runner outwards near the 1200 metres and forced KAHNTDOITALONE (Steven McNally) to race wider on the track.

The Rule provides that a horse during a race shall not be forced to race wider on the track and that a horse shall not move ground outwards once the nose of the wider runner coming forward is in line with or past its sulky wheel. This applies until the 1000 metres.

SUBMISSIONS:

Mr Williams had Stipendiary Steward, Steve Mulcay, show head-on and side-on video replays of the incident, with approximately 1200 metres to run. He pointed out GINA’S MAJESTY, driven by Mr Cameron, racing three places back in the one-out line. KHANTDOITALONE, driven by  Mr McNally, was behind Mr Cameron and improving in the 3-out line, on the back of HEAVENLY STRINGS (Craig Thornley). Mr Cameron then shifted out and, as a result, forced Mr McNally to race wider on the track, Mr Mulcay said. The side-on video clearly showed that the head of Mr McNally’s runner was past Mr Cameron’s sulky wheel.

Mr Cameron said that Mr McNally was racing more than 3-wide and there was a “big gap” there. He had thought that he was able to shift out, but he had misunderstood the Rule (which was amended in November 2019).

REASON FOR DECISION:

Mr Cameron has admitted the charge, which is found proved accordingly.

PENALTY SUBMISSIONS:

Mr Williams said that Mr Cameron has a clear record and had cooperated fully with Stewards. The Penalty Guidelines provide for a starting point of a  $250 fine or a 5-drives suspension. Mr Cameron has had 79 drives in this extended season, Mr Williams said. Stewards were submitting for a fine of not less that $200.

Mr Cameron asked if he was able to take a suspension but, following a brief discussion, he indicated that his preference was for a fine.

PENALTY REASONS:

The Penalty Guide provides for a starting point for penalty of a $250 fine. There are no aggravating factors. Mr Cameron is entitled to a discount from that starting point for his good record and admission of the breach. That discount is fixed at $50.

CONCLUSION:

Driver, Ian Cameron, is fined the sum of $200.