Manawatu HRC 16 November 2021 – R3 and R6 – SCOTT DICKSON

EVIDENCE

Informations A17255 and A17256 were filed with the Committee.  Both Informations alleged that Mr Dickson used his whip in more than a wrist flicking motion in the home straight.  In Race 3 Mr Dickson drove “I WON’T BACK DOWN” and in Race 6 he drove “MAHIA”.

Mr Dickson said that he understood the Rule, Charges and confirmed that he admitted both breaches.

The film replays were shown with Mr Williams stating that with respect to Race 3 Mr Dickson used his whip 12 times with more than a wrist flicking motion when driving “I WON’T BACK DOWN”.

Mr Dickson in essence said that his drive kept giving and kept trying and that it is hard to change your action.

With respect to Race 6 Mr Williams said that Mr Dickson struck his horse “MAHIA” 11 times with force with more than a wrist flicking motion.

Mr Dickson said that the final part of the Race was okay, with Mr Williams agreeing that he had no issue with the drive over the final few strides.

DECISION:

As both Informations were admitted, together with the clear film evidence they were found proved.

PENALTY SUBMISSIONS:

Mr Williams said that both breaches should be treated as a first offence, as Mr Dickson was not told that he was needed to be spoken to regarding his whip use in Race 3 before his remaining drives.  Mr Williams made reference to the Penalty Guide and although the starting point is for a fine of $500 or a 2-day suspension he recommended the fine of $400 be imposed for each breach.

Mr Dickson said that his whip use was not intentional and that as he has few drives on racedays he is having trouble adapting to the new style.  He said that he will try harder and get better.

Following a discussion regarding penalty, Mr Dickson said that he preferred a fine for Race 3 and a suspension for Race 6.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

Taking into account all penalty submissions it was determined by the Committee that a fine be imposed for the Race 3 breach and a suspension for the breach in Race 6.

CONCLUSION:

Mr Dickson was fined $400 (Information A17255) with his Driver’s Licence suspended from 18 November up to and including Racing on 2 December 2021 (2 Days) (Information A17256).