NZ Metro TC 12 November 2021 – R4 – Brad Williamson

SUMMARY OF FACTS:

Following the running of Race 4 Chief RIB Steward Mr Nick Ydgren presented an Information alleging a breach of Rule 869(3)(b) by Driver Mr Brad Williamson which was admitted.

EVIDENCE:

Mr Ydgren played the race video to identify Mr Williamson (DON’T ASK) and Mr John Morrison (JIMMY CARTER) racing in mid-field. He showed  5 MEXICANA  gallop when close to the lead and then being restrained back through the field. Mr Ydgren pointed to Mr Williamson as he steered around MEXICANA and found Mr Morrison to his outside. He said at this point Mr Morrison had 3/4 of a length advantage on Mr Williamson. He said as Mr Morrison eased down the track as he was entitled to Mr Williamson has maintained his line and not relinquished his position as would be expected of an experienced Driver. He pointed to DON’T ASK’S off side hoof touch the left wheel of JIMMY CARTER’S sulky and gallop interfering with I DREAM OF JEANNIE.

Mr Williamson said that everything happened very fast after clearing the galloping runner and unfortunately I got clipped.

REASON FOR DECISION

Mr Williamson having admitted the breach the charge was deemed to be proved.

SUBMISSION FOR PENALTY:

Mr Ydgren stated Mr Williamson had a clear record under the Rule in the last 12 months which is commendable for a Driver who has had 320 drives in that period. Mr Ydgren said this breach wasn’t a normal careless driving incident of a Driver shifting ground causing interference. He said past penalties for a Driver hitting a wheel have been dealt with by way of a fine but this breach had consequences for not only Mr Williamson’s horse but also that of I DREAM OF JEANNIE. He said if the Committee sees fit to fine Mr Williamson an increase from the starting point of $300 would be appropriate otherwise the Committee may well consider imposing a suspension.

Mr Williamson stated he had just taken evasive action to miss the galloping horse before the incident happened. He said the incident wasn’t blatant carelessness and in this case, a suspension would be harsh and unfair.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Committee carefully considered all submissions presented. It was particularly helpful to this Committee that a similar incident occurred on Cup Day 3 days ago. The circumstances of that Driver striking the wheel of a favored runner, extinguishing its chances, correspond with Mr Williamson’s breach very closely.

The Committee having regard for the need for consistency consider a fine appropriate in this case. The starting point of a $300 fine is taken and uplifted to $500. For Mr Williamson’s record and admission, we afford him a $100 discount.

CONCLUSIONS:

Mr Williamson is fined $400.