Manawatu HRC 13 February 2024 – R6 (heard 15 February 2024 at Palmerston North) – Josh Dickie

Background:

Following the running of Race 6, the ‘Kevin & Shirley Farrier Mobile Pace 2000m’ an Information was lodged alleging a breach of Rule 869(3)(b).

Details of the breach are as follows: ‘in that J Dickie (Benjamin Button) drove carelessly when striking the sulky wheel of Uncle Drew near the 300m resulting in his runner breaking’. 

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

The Respondent confirmed to the Adjudicative Committee that he understood the charge and admitted the breach.

Evidence:

Using available film, Stewards identified the incident. Approaching the home turn, BENJAMIN BUTTON was in last place, off the fence and looking to improve. As the Respondent looked to improve to the outside of UNCLE DREW, the horse struck the sulky of UNCLE DREW and went off stride.

Decision:

As Mr Dickie had admitted the breach, it was deemed proved.

Submissions as to Penalty:

Stewards outlined the Respondent’s clear record as it relates to any breach of this Rule within the last six months. The Adjudicative Committee was referred to the current Penalty Guide as it relates to this breach type. The Respondent did not offer comment.

Reasons for Penalty:

The breach is identified through film viewed. The incident did affect the chances of BENJAMIN BUTTON, however it did appear that UNCLE DREW was largely unaffected. The current HRNZ Penalty Guide provides the starting point being a fine of $300 – 1st breach in circumstance of striking a wheel. This is consistent with the equivalent starting point – low range careless drive where same has minimal consequential effects. As such, this level of fine is deemed appropriate.

Conclusion:

Drive Josh Dickie is fined a sum of $300.