Matamata RC 28 February 2026 – R8 – Hayley Hassman

Background:

Following the running of Race 8, the ‘Colchester Engineering 1600’, an Information was lodged alleging a breach of Rule 638(1)(d). Details are as follows:

‘in that she allowed her mount ‘ZANTABULOUS’ to shift outwards when not fully clear of ‘POSITIVITY’ which was checked near the 300 metres. 

Rule 638(1)(d) provides:

(1) A Rider shall not ride a horse in a manner which the Adjudicative Committee considers to be: (d) careless.

The Respondent confirmed that she understood the Rule and admitted the breach. Ms Hassman was assisted in the hearing by Mr Ted Mclaughlin.

Evidence:

Using available film, Stewards identified the incident and horses involved. Approaching the turn, ZANTABULOUS was positioned mid field against the fence. The Respondent is seen to angle out to improve her position. At this point, ‘POSITIVITY (Mr Sam McNab), who had been behind ‘ZANTABULOUS’, also looks to move out and improve. In moving, the Respondent is not sufficiently clear of ‘POSITIVITY’. Mr McNab is momentarily checked and is required to move off heels. Ms Hassman essentially agreed with Steward interpretation, adding that Mr McNab had not been in her peripheral vision and that she had not heard anything.

Decision:

As the Respondent admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee found the breach proved.

Submissions for Penalty:

Stewards outlined the Respondent’s record, as it relates to any breach of this particular Rule within the 12-month reset period. There is one noted, that being R Rotorua on 5 December 2025, where a 6-day suspension was imposed for a mid-range careless ride. Ms Hassman has had 355 rides in the period from May 2025. It was contended that the carelessness sat low range, with the Adjudicative Committee referred to the current NZTR Penalty Guide. Ms Hassman asked that any suspension imposed, be deferred to enable her to satisfy riding commitments on 7 March 2026.

Reasons for Penalty:

The incident is satisfactorily identified through film. The Respondent was not sufficiently clear, when looking to move. The interference was minor, albeit readily identifiable. The Adjudicative Committee was satisfied that the degree of carelessness sat low range.  The current NZTR Penalty Guide provides a starting point for low-range careless at a 5-day suspension. This was adopted as the starting point. A reduction 1 day was applied, to reflect record and ready admission. After consideration, a 4-day suspension was deemed the appropriate penalty. The Respondent’s request for deferment was granted.

Conclusion:

The Respondent’s Licence to ride in races is suspended for 4 NR Days, from the close of racing on 7 March 2026, up to and including 13 March 2026.