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Manawatu HRC 15 February 2022 – R2 – Mark Johnson

ID: RIB7523

Respondent(s):
Mark Johnson - Junior Driver

Applicant:
Mr S Mulcay - Chief Stipendiary Steward

Adjudicators:
Mr N McCutcheon

Persons Present:
Mr M Johnson, Mr Jay Abernethy assisting Mr Johnson

Information Number:
A10293

Decision Type:
Adjudicative Decision

Charge:
Continuous Use of Whip from 250m

Rule(s):
869(2) and Whip and Rein Regulations

Plea:
Admitted

Stewards Report

Results

Code:
Harness

Race Date:
15/02/2022

Race Club:
Manawatu Harness Racing Club

Race Location:
Manawatu Raceway - Pioneer Highway, Palmerston North,

Race Number:
R2

Hearing Date:
15/02/2022

Hearing Location:
Palmerston North

Outcome: Proved

Penalty: Junior Driver Mark Johnson was fined $350

SUMMARY OF FACTS

Mr Johnson, the Driver of “AURELIA COTTA” admitted a charge of using his whip in a continuous manner from near the 250m.

Mr Johnson, in the presence of Mr Abernethy, said that he understood the Rules, the charge and confirmed that he admitted the breach.

Mr Mulcay identified horse and Driver racing round the final bend, then said that from near the 250m until the end of the race, Mr Johnson had hit his horse no less than 20 times in a continuous manner.  He added that the whip use was unacceptable.

DECISION

As the charge was admitted, along with the film coverage, the charge was found proved.

PENALTY SUBMISSIONS

Mr Mulcay said that Mr Johnson had a clear record and indicated that a 2-day suspension or a fine of $300 would be a suitable penalty.

Mr Johnson said that he made a mistake and had a brain fade.  He said that he does have a good record.

REASONS FOR PENALTY

Film replays showed that Mr Johnson had hit his drive no less than 20 times during the final 250m in a continuous manner.  Mr Johnson had the whip in his left hand.  The whip use exhibited by Mr Johnson will not be condoned under any circumstances.

Taking into account all matters relating to penalty, a fine of $350 was considered an appropriate penalty.

CONCLUSION

Mr Mark Johnson was fined $350.

Decision Date: 15/02/2022

Publish Date: 22/02/2022