Ashburton TC 4 June 2023 – R3 – Blair Orange

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 3, an Information was presented by Chief Stipendiary Steward Mr Nigel McIntyre alleging a breach of Rule 869(3)(b) by Open Driver Mr Blair Orange.

Mr Orange confirmed he understood the charge and that he admitted the breach.

The detail on the Information was “B Orange (SMOKIN ANNIE) drove carelessly after 200m when shifting ground inwards, checking RUBY MALONE (M Williamson) which broke”.

Mr McIntyre played the relevant videos to identify Mr Orange and to show him leaving from gate 4, crossing towards the pylons, and into the line of Mr Williamson who had to check, with RUBY MALONE breaking stride. Mr McIntyre said contact was made and Mr Williamson’s horse did not help itself, but Mr Orange has simply driven into the rightful racing line of RUBY MALONE.

Mr Orange said RUBY MALONE has shifted outwards, contributing to the incident, but conceded he had misjudged the manoeuvre.

DECISION:

The Respondent having admitted the breach, the charge was deemed to be proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr McIntyre stated Mr Orange has had 476 drives to date this season, 1244 last season and has a clear record. The aggravating factor is a horse has galloped but with Mr Orange’s exemplary record and his admission, the Stewards would be seeking a 2-day suspension as Penalty.

Mr Orange made no submissions on Penalty but asked for any proposed suspension to be deferred until after racing on 11 June.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Penalty Guidelines provide a 3-day suspension starting point for a first breach of the Rule.

The Adjudicative Committee noted when Mr Williamson took hold of RUBY MALONE, it did run up the track slightly, but the damage had already taken place. This is a rare indiscretion from the country’s Premier Driver and in considering the Stewards’ submissions and all factors, the Adjudicative Committee find a 2-day sanction as appropriate in the circumstances of this case.

A 7-day deferment is granted for Mr Orange.

CONCLUSION:

Driver Mr Blair Orange’s Licence to drive in races is suspended from the 12th  to the 17th of June 2023 inclusive.