NZ Metro TC 23 August 2024 – R2 – Bob Butt
ID: RIB45506
Animal Name:
BRONSON
Code:
Harness
Race Date:
23/08/2024
Race Club:
NZ Metropolitan Trotting Club Inc
Race Location:
Addington Raceway - 75 Jack Hinton Drive, Addington, Christchurch, 8024
Race Number:
R2
Hearing Date:
23/08/2024
Hearing Location:
Addington Raceway, Christchurch
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Driver Bob Butt is fined $500
EVIDENCE:
Following the running of Race 2, Stipendiary Steward Mr Paul Williams presented an Information alleging a breach of Rule 869(3)(b) by Open Driver Mr Bob Butt.
Mr Butt stated he was conversant with the Rule, the Charge and he confirmed his admittance of the breach.
Mr Williams played the final 200m of the race and identified Mr Butt (BRONSON) racing in the middle of the racetrack and following the winner of the race, DANCING DESIRE. Mr Williams pointed to Mr Butt, at approximately the 100m, shift his horse inwards when insufficiently clear of JACK TAR (B Hope), who was dictated onto KEEPING IT KIWI (R Holmes), who was checked.
Mr Butt had nothing to add to Mr Williams’ assessment.
DECISION:
The Respondent having admitted the charge, it was deemed to be proved.
SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:
Mr Williams stated Mr Butt has a clear record under the Careless Driving Rule.
Mr Williams said the Stewards assess this breach at low range, however, the consequence of Mr Butt’s shifting inwards, may have cost Mr Holmes 4th placing. He said the Stewards would be asking for a fine of no less than $500.
Mr Butt said he admits it became very tight towards the finish, but said being so close to the winning post, the placings were not likely to have changed.
REASONS FOR PENALTY:
The Penalty Guidelines provide a starting point of a $500 fine, or 2-day suspension for a first breach of the Rule at mid-range. The mid-range breach description is “where the breach causes interference which impacts on own or another horse’s chances.” This breach has impacted on Mr Holmes, who may have finished in 4th place, had it not been for the interference.
Mr Butt indicated a fine would be preferred.
The Adjudicative Committee considers Mr Williams’ assessment of the incident to be very accurate. The movement of Mr Butt was minor, but the consequences were not.
Having considered all factors, the Adjudicative Committee finds a fine of $500 to be appropriate in this matter.
CONCLUSION:
Driver Bob Butt is fined $500.
Decision Date: 23/08/2024
Publish Date: 26/08/2024