Ashburton TC 24 October 2022 – R8 – Samantha Ottley

BACKGROUND:

Following the running of Race 8, Woodlands Stud Sires Stakes Heat 5 Mobile Pace, an Information was filed against Driver, Samantha Ottley, alleging that, as the Driver of SHERLOCK in the race, she shifted inwards and struck the final track marker prior to the passing lane near the 200 metres.

The Respondent was present at the hearing and she confirmed that she understood the Rule and the charge and that the breach was admitted.

Rule 869 provides:

(7A)  Every driver who moves inwards shall ensure:

(a)   That contact is not made with any track marker.

EVIDENCE:

Chief Stipendiary Steward, Nigel McIntyre, showed a head-on video replay of the race as the field entered the final straight. He pointed out SHERLOCK, driven by the Respondent, positioned behind the leader, BECKHAM (Natalie Rasmussen). He then pointed out the leader shift out from the marker line, leaving a marginal run for the Respondent. The Respondent took that run and struck the last marker before the passing lane. Stewards were satisfied that the Respondent had gained no advantage – she had simply struck the last marker, Mr McIntyre said.

DECISION:

The charge was admitted and is therefore deemed proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr McIntyre said that the Respondent had been warned for contacting a track marker at Methven on 9 October last, 22 drives ago. Stewards were seeking a fine of $100 on this occasion, he said.

The Respondent submitted that she had “brushed” the pylon, and had not “smashed” it. It was a matter of inches, she said.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Respondent has shifted her runner inwards just before entering the passing lane and, in doing so, her inside sulky wheel has struck the track marker. Clearly, no advantage was gained, although the Respondent went on to win the race. There being no relevant aggravating or mitigating factors, the Respondent is fined the sum of $100, as per the Penalty Guide.

CONCLUSION:

The Respondent, Driver Samantha Ottley, is fined $100.