NZ Metro TC 15 October 2021 – R8 – Natalie Rasmussen

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 8 an Information was presented by Stipendiary Steward Mr S Renault alleging a breach of the Careless Driving Rule 869(3)(b). The Information stated, “N Rasmussen drove carelessly in the run home by allowing her horse to shift outwards causing interference to SELF ASSURED.”

Mr Renault showed the home straight video and identified Ms Rasmussen leading the race at the 250-metre mark. He pointed to Ms Rasmussen activate the earplugs at which time the horse had shifted out approximately 1 1/2 cart widths. He said the Stewards’ concern was after this had happened Ms Rasmussen has failed to straighten her horse in the run to the line interfering with SELF ASSURED.

Ms Rasmussen stated it was obvious that her horse has shifted wider as she crossed her reins to activate the earplugs. She said her horse is a difficult drive and has plenty of gear on to try and help it. She said once she had regathered her rein there was minimal movement.

REASON FOR DECISION:

The Adjudicator carefully considered all the evidence and replayed the video many times. It was agreed by all parties that as Ms Rasmussen crossed her reins to activate gear her horse has ducked out significantly, interfering with SELF ASSURED. This interference was enough to reverse the placings in the subsequent protest.

Once Ms Rasmussen regained her rein the video shows SOUTH COAST ARDEN drifted up the track slightly but not to an extent that would have caused Mr Purdon(SELF ASSURED) any major interference in normal circumstances. Although this minor movement may have compounded Mr Purdon’s problem of navigating around Ms Rasmussen the damage had already taken place.

This Adjudicator considers Ms Rasmussen was not to blame for SOUTH COAST ARDEN ducking out at the 250 metres and any movement after that fact was within a reasonable margin and not worthy of sanction under the Careless Driving Rule.

CONCLUSIONS:

The charge was dismissed.