NZ Metro TC 12 November 2021 – R5 – John Morrison

SUMMARY OF FACTS:

Following the running of Race 5, Chief RIB Steward Mr Nick Ydgren presented an Information alleging a breach of Rule 869(3)(b) by Mr John Morrison which was admitted. Mr Morrison acknowledged he was familiar with the Careless Driving Rule.

EVIDENCE:

Mr Ydgren played the race video to identify Mr Morrison driving 10 TIGER TAYLOR 5 back on the rail with approximately 400m to run. Mr Ydgren pointed to Mr Morrison shift out into the two wide line and improve to be inside ARABIAN BLUE (M Purdon). He then showed Mr Morrison shift out further forcing Mr Purdon onto RIVERMAN SAM (T Williams) which was tightened and checked between ARABIAN BLUE and ROLLYOUROWN (B Orange).

Mr Ydgren said Mr Morrison’s driving had stepped over the fine line which separates competitive driving and careless driving. He showed on the video Mr Orange fending off Mr Williams’ sulky with his hand, adding the combined experience of all Drivers concerned mitigated the incident.

Mr Morrison pointed out on the replay that Mr Orange had reached to activate earplugs and his horse had shifted inwards making the incident look worse than it was.

REASON FOR DECISION:

Mr Morrison having admitted the breach the charge was deemed proved.

SUBMISSION FOR PENALTY:

Mr Ydgren stated Mr Morrison is a very busy Driver having driven in 906 races so far this season. He said there are 2 recent previous breaches of this Rule by Mr Morrison.

10th June at Forbury Park 232 drives ago – 3 days suspension and 11th July at Addington, 180 drives ago – 2 days suspension.

Mr Ydgren said the Stewards consider a suspension is required as is normal when interference occurs and Mr Morrison has gained an advantage that he was not entitled to. He submitted a 4-day suspension starting point as appropriate and informed the Committee that Mr Morrison has declared drives on the 16th November at Manawatu.

Mr Morrison asked for a deferment to start any suspension after the 16th at Manawatu.

REASON FOR PENALTY:

Mr Morrison has forced a run affecting several runners and the Penalty Guidelines provide a 3 days suspension for a second breach of the Rule, which this is. He has admitted the breach and has been frank and professional at the hearing for which credit is given.

CONCLUSION:

Mr Morrison’s request for deferment is granted and his License to drive is suspended for 3 days from the close of racing on 16 November up to and including racing on 20 November 2021. The days encompassed in this suspension are; 17th Rangiora, 18th Manawatu, and 20th at Timaru.