Geraldine TC 7 December 2024 – R12 – Lionel Dobbs

ID: RIB49190

Respondent(s):
Lionel Graham Dobbs - Driver

Applicant:
Mr Shane Renault - Stipendiary Steward

Adjudicators:
Dave Anderson

Persons Present:
Mr Renault and Mr Dobbs

Information Number:
A20198

Decision Type:
Race Related Charge

Charge:
Careless Driving checking another runner

Rule(s):
869(3)(b) - Riding/driving infringement

Plea:
Admitted

Animal Name:
BETTERTHANDIVA

Code:
Harness

Race Date:
07/12/2024

Race Club:
Geraldine Trotting Club

Race Location:
Orari Racecourse - Orari Station Road, Orari, 7992

Race Number:
R12

Hearing Date:
07/12/2024

Hearing Location:
Orari Racecourse

Outcome: Proved

Penalty: Driver Lionel Dobbs is fined $250

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 12, Stipendiary Steward Mr Shane Renault presented an Information alleging a breach of Rule 869(3)(b) by Driver Mr Lionel Dobbs.

Mr Dobbs stated he understood the Rule and the Charge and confirmed he admitted the breach of the Rule.

Mr Renault played the first 200m of the race to show Mr Dobbs (BETTERTHANDIVA) drawn the outside of the mobile barrier. He pointed to Mr Dobbs drive his horse forward from the start and shifting inwards, when not clear of FERNZ GOLDY (D Dolan), who was checked and paced roughly for a stride or two.

Mr Dobbs agreed he was in breach of the Rule and made no submissions.

DECISION:

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

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Renault said Mr Dobbs has a clear record under the rule and has driven 23 times this season. He said the Stewards view this breach at low-range and would be seeking a penalty as the Guidelines provide.

Mr Dobbs made no submissions on Penalty.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Penalty Guidelines provide a 2-day suspension or a $300 fine starting point for a low-range breach, which this is.

Mr Dobbs has been very frank admitting this breach, has a clear record in relation to the Rule and the Adjudicative Committee considers a fine of $250 appropriate in this case.

CONCLUSION:

Driver Mr Lionel Dobbs is fined $250.

Decision Date: 07/12/2024

Publish Date: 10/12/2024