Manawatu HRC 12 February 2026 – R1 – Jay Abernethy
ID: RIB64008
Animal Name:
RUN BLAZE RUN
Code:
Harness
Race Date:
12/02/2026
Race Club:
Manawatu Harness Racing Club
Race Location:
Manawatu Raceway - Pioneer Highway, Palmerston North,
Race Number:
R1
Hearing Date:
12/02/2026
Hearing Location:
Manawatu Raceway
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Driver Jay Abernethy is fined $300
EVIDENCE:
Mr Abernethy, having acknowledged the breach of the Whip and Rein Regulations, consented to the charge proceeding without him attending.
Following the running of Race , the “JASE SCAFFOLDING MOBILE PACE”, Mr Wallis presented an Information charging Mr J Abernethy with using his whip on his horse RUN BLAZE RUN, with more than a wrist flicking action, in breach of Rule 869(2) of the Whip & Rein Regulations.
The race film depicted RUN BLAZE RUN finishing strongly in the home straight when under a vigorous drive by Mr Abernethy, using his whip with the prohibited raised elbow act. The horse finished second.
DECISION:
As the charge was admitted, it was deemed proved.
SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:
Mr Abernethy has had no previous breaches of this Rule, and one warning.
REASONS FOR PENALTY:
In keeping in line with the Penalty Guide, it was deemed that a fine was the appropriate sanction on this occasion.
CONCLUSION:
Accordingly, Mr Abernethy is fined $300.
Decision Date: 12/02/2026
Publish Date: 18/02/2026