NZ Metro TC 16 June 2023 – R7 (heard 18 June at Addington) – Korbyn Newman

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 7, an Information was presented by Stipendiary Steward Mr Paul Williams, alleging a breach of Rule 869(2) by Junior Driver Mr Korbyn Newman.

The hearing of the Information was adjourned sine die and heard on 18 June 2023 at Addington Raceway.

Mr Newman stated he was conversant with the Rule, the Charge and confirmed he admitted the breach. Mr Newman was assisted at the hearing by his employer, Mr John Dunn.

Mr Williams played the relevant videos and identified Mr Newman 3 wide entering the final straight. He pointed to Mr Newman use his whip numerous times in the run to the finish line. He said the strikes were certainly not forceful, but there was seldom a pause in the drive to the finish.

Mr Dunn commented it was a case of too much excitement from Mr Newman.

DECISION:

The Respondent having admitted the breach, the charge was deemed to be proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Williams said Mr Newman had 204 drives last season and 52 in the current one. He said Mr Newman was fined $300 on 24 March 2023 and on 12 May 2023, suspended for 4 days and fined $300 in a Group Race, both at Addington. Mr Williams said Mr Newman had also been spoken to about his whip action on two occasions in the past month or so. He said Stewards would be seeking a suspension in this case.

Mr Newman made no submissions on penalty, but asked to start any suspension immediately. He produced acceptable proof he was intending to travel to the upcoming Forbury meeting.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Penalty Guidelines provide a 4-day suspension for a 2nd breach at mid-level.

The strikes to this horse were no more than taps, but Mr Newman has just been too busy in his driving style. In this regard, the Adjudicative Committee considers this to be low level, however, because this is Mr Newman’s 3rd breach, a 4-day suspension is found to be the appropriate penalty in the circumstances of this case.

CONCLUSION:

Junior Driver Mr Korbyn Newman’s Licence to drive in races is suspended from the conclusion of racing today, up to and including racing on the 30 June 2023.