Banks Peninsula TC 19 March 2023 – R3 – Grant Hunt

BACKGROUND:

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

Mr Hunt confirmed he understood the Rule and the charge and that he admitted the breach.

Rule 869 (3)(b) provides:

Any driver in a race may not drive:

(b) Carelessly

EVIDENCE:

Mr McIntyre with the assistance of Mr Renault, showed the video of the back straight and identified Mr Hunt in a 4 wide position approaching the 1100m. Mr McIntyre said Mr Hunt has misjudged a manoeuvre to shift inwards and has checked SOCIAL GIANT (B Orange) which lost its position.

Mr Hunt said he agrees he has misjudged his movement but noted that SOCIAL GIANT was racing keenly which didn’t help his predicament.

DECISION:

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

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr McIntyre said a 3-day suspension was the starting point. He said Mr Hunt had a clear record under the Rule and the Stewards feel this starting point would be an appropriate penalty.

Mr Hunt said he had only one other horse at racing stage and Mr McIntyre’s submission sounded fair and reasonable and he didn’t require any deferment of Penalty.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

Harness Racing Penalty Guidelines provide a starting point of a 3 day suspension for this Rule. Mr Hunt has checked a horse out of it’s rightful position and therefore the breach sits in the middle range. Notwithstanding Mr Hunt’s admittance and clear record the Adjudicative Committee consider a 3 day suspension as appropriate in the circumstances of this case.

CONCLUSION:

Mr Hunt’s Licence to drive in races is suspended from the close of racing today 19 March 2023 up to and including racing on Sunday 26 March 2023.