NZ Metro TC 14 November 2025 – R12 – Zachary Butcher
ID: RIB60662
Animal Name:
MERLIN
Code:
Harness
Race Date:
14/11/2025
Race Club:
NZ Metropolitan Trotting Club Inc
Race Location:
Addington Raceway - 75 Jack Hinton Drive, Addington, Christchurch, 8024
Race Number:
R12
Hearing Date:
14/11/2025
Hearing Location:
Addington Raceway, Christchurch
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Driver Zachary Butcher is suspended for 2 days
EVIDENCE:
Following the running of Race 12, Chief Stipendiary Steward Mr Nigel McIntyre presented an Information alleging a breach of Rule 869(4)(6)(b)(c) by Driver Zachary Butcher.
Mr Butcher stated he was conversant with the Rule and the Charge and confirmed he admitted the breach.
Mr McIntyre played the video of the first 300m of the race, to show Mr Butcher (MERLIN) drawn one on the second line, shifting his horse away from the pylons and into the racing line of MACANDREW AVIATOR (J Dunn), forcing it wider. This manoeuvre in turn, forced REPUBLICAN PARTY (C Dalgety), racing on the outside of MACANDREW AVIATOR, to also be shifted wider on the track.
Mr Butcher said he eased his horse out with the utmost care, to give it its best chance in an important race. He said he realized he was in breach of the Rule.
DECISION:
The Respondent having admitted the breach, it was deemed to be proved.
SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:
Mr McIntyre said Mr Butcher has a clear record under the Rule and has driven 396 times this season. He said because Mr Butcher has gained an advantage, a suspension is recommended by Stewards.
Mr Butcher had nothing to add, but wished to defer any suspension until after racing on 21 November.
REASONS FOR PENALTY:
The Penalty Guidelines provide a $400 fine, or a 2-day suspension for a first breach of the Rule.
MACANDREW AVIATOR did receive the run of the race from Mr Butcher’s manouvre and REPUBLICAN PARTY was not overly hindered, however, MERLIN did race in a handier position than it was entitled to.
The Adjudicative Committee, on considering these factors, found a suspension is warranted and impose a 2-day suspension on Mr Butcher.
CONCLUSION:
Deferment is granted and Driver Zachary Butcher is suspended from the conclusion of racing on 21 November, up to and including racing on 28 November 2025.
Decision Date: 14/11/2025
Publish Date: 18/11/2025