Hawera HRC 2 February 2024 – R10 – Matthew White

Background:

Following the running of Race 10, the ‘Taranaki Steelformers Stratford Cup HCP Pace 2100m’ an Information was lodged alleging a breach of Rule 869(3)(b).

Details of the breach are ‘in that M White (Smoke on the Water) drove carelessly when striking the sulky wheel of Hooray Henry (D Butcher) near the 300 metres’

Rule 869(3)(b) provides … No driver in any race shall drive: carelessly

Mr White confirmed that he understood and admitted the breach

Evidence:

Stewards used available film to illustrate the incident. Approaching the home turn, Mr White is positioned against the pegs trailing Mr Butcher. On reaching the passing lane, he angles to the inside to secure a run. In doing so, the sulky of HOORAY HENRY is struck, resulting in a puncture. Mr Butcher is seen to react to the incident. SMOKE ON THE WATER went on to win the race. When asked for comment, Mr White said that his horse was full of running.

Decision:

The charge was admitted by the Respondent and is therefore deemed proved.

Submissions for Penalty:

The Respondent’s record is clear as it relates to this particular Rule. Mr Mulcay referred the Adjudicative Committee to the current HR Penalty Guide 1 February 2023. Same outlines – starting point – 1st breach – $300 fine, noting that the description within the Guide provides that any time a Driver hits a wheel, the consequence of this action go to penalty. Mr Mulcay did comment that if the puncture had not occurred, Stewards may have considered issue of warning, however consequences of the incident required imposition of a fine. Mr White did not comment.

Reasons for Penalty:

The incident is clearly identified and admitted. There are no aggravating or mitigating factors requiring consideration and as such, a fine of $300 is deemed appropriate.

Conclusion:

Mr White is fined a sum of $300.