Auckland TR 6 September 2025 – R9 – Rory Hutchings

Background:

Following the running of Race 9, the Group 1 ‘Proisir Plate’, an Information was lodged alleging a breach of Rule 638(2). Details are as follows:

‘in that he made a celebratory gesture prior to the passing the winning post.

Rule 638(2) provides:

A Rider shall not make a celebratory gesture prior to his horse passing the winning post.

The Respondent confirmed to the Adjudicative Committee that he understood the Rule and admitted the breach.

Evidence:

Using available film, Stewards identified the incident and horse involved. As the field entered the home straight, QUINTESSA was positioned to the rear of the field. The horse finished stoutly away from the fence, winning the race, with the official margin to the second horse being 1 1/2 lengths. Just short of the line, the Respondent is seen make an exuberant celebratory gesture. The Respondent agreed with Steward’s interpretation. By way of explanation, he added that it was the first Group 1 of the season, he became excited and had misjudged the winning post.

Decision:

As the Respondent admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee found the breach proved.

Submissions for Penalty:

Stewards referred the Adjudicative Committee to the current NZTR Penalty Guide, which in the case of a breach of this Rule, denotes a starting point of a $300 fine. Stewards sought an uplift to reflect the status of the Race. In support, Stewards noted two previous breaches of interest namely:

Rory Hutchings – Waikato TR 8/2/2025 Herbie Dyke Stakes (Group 1) – $500 fine

Matt Cartwright – Hawkes Bay RI 7/9/2024 Westbury Stud Tarzino Trophy (Group 1) – $600

In relation to penalty, Mr Hutchings commented that this was only the second time he had been charged with a breach of this Rule in the last 15 years.

Reasons for Penalty:

The breach was, to the satisfaction of the Adjudicative Committee, identified by film. Given the status of the Race, along with identified precedent, an uplift from the starting point is warranted. On balance, a fine of $600 was determined to be the appropriate penalty.

Conclusion:

Mr Hutchings is fined the sum of $600.