Manawatu HRC 10 December 2024 – R6 – Wilson House

Background:

Following the running of Race 6, the ‘Hawera Grass Track Racedays Jan/Feb 25 Mobile Pace’, an Information was lodged alleging a breach of Rule 869(2) and the Whip and Rein Regulations. Details of the Information are as follow:

‘ W House (Enya Franco) used his whip with more than a wrist flicking motion in the run home’

Prior to commencement of the hearing, the Adjudicative Committee enquired as to whether Mr House was to have a Senior Licenced Person present to assist. He did not seek assistance. Mr House is now an ‘experienced’ Junior Driver with nearly 500 drives. It was on this understanding that the hearing did proceed. Mr House conveyed that he understood the Rule and admitted the breach.

Rule 869(2) provides ‘ No driver shall during any race use a whip in a manner in contravention of the Whip and Rein Regulations made by the Board’. The Regulations remain specific in respect of definition.

Evidence:

Using available film, Stewards identified the incident. On turning into the home straight, ENYA FRANCO was leading the field, but was under pressure. Mr House is seen to strike his drive on 3 occasions, with other than a wrist flicking motion. From this point, Mr House drove in a compliant manner to the finish line. Mr House agreed with Steward interpretation. He did comment that the horse was a particularly difficult drive and at the point of the incident, he was struggling to activate the plugs and his actions became ‘too big’.

Decision:

As the charge was admitted, it was found proved.

Penalty Submissions:

Stewards outlined Mr House’s record as it relates to this Rule and related Regulations. He had received a warning in relation to whip use at the Manawatu HRC Meeting on 21st November 2024. Stewards remained of the view that on this occasion, the breach was low level and referred the Adjudicative Committee to the current Penalty Guide. Mr House did not offer specific comment, but indicated preference for a fine over a suspension.

Reasons for Penalty:

Film provided clearly identifies the offence. The Adjudicative Committee is satisfied that the offence was low level given that following the strikes, Mr House corrected his action and drove to the line in a compliant manner.  In this circumstance, current Guidelines provide for penalty of a $300 fine or 2 day suspension.  A fine of $300 is deemed appropriate.

Conclusion:

Mr House is fined a sum of $300.