Hawkes Bay RI 12 September 2026 – R9 – Garry Phillips

Evidence

Following the running of Race 9, the ‘Colliers Hawke’s Bay Stayers’, an Information was lodged alleging a breach of Rule 631(2). Details are as follows:

‘in that he loaded Arksey and Ocean Melody into the incorrect barrier stalls’

Rule 631(2) provides:

‘Each horse shall, as far as is practicable, be started from the starting stalls corresponding to such stall position determined by NZTR in accordance with Rule 627′

Mr Phillips admitted the breach.

Mr Oatham advised that ARKSEY and OCEAN MELODY drew barriers 9 and 8 respectively. However ARKSEY was loaded into, and started from, barrier 8 whilst OCEAN MELODY was loaded into, and started from barrier 9. Stewards remained comfortable that the error was not material to the result of the race. The race was a 2100m event, with the start at the top of the straight.

As stated, Mr Phillips admitted the breach and took responsibility. It is perhaps best explained as resulting from a breakdown in communication between Starting Stall Attendants and the Starter.

Decision

The charge is admitted and is therefore proven.

Penalty Submissions

Stewards advised that Mr Phillips has a clear record in any respect of any error of this type. Stewards were able to refer the Adjudicative Committee to a generally similar breach that occurred at the Auckland TR meeting on 21 February 2026. On that occasion, Starter Mr Tony McGovern was fined a sum of $250. The race in question was a 1400 metre event, where 2 horses were incorrectly loaded.

Mr Oatham said that in his view, there were no aggravating factors to consider and suggested that a fine approaching $250 may be appropriate.

Reasons for Penalty

Mr Phillips is a very experienced Starter within both the Harness and Thoroughbred Codes. He freely admitted the breach and took responsibility for the error. On balance, a fine of $150 was considered the appropriate penalty.

Conclusion

Mr Phillips is fined a sum of $150.