NZ Metro TC 25 July 2025 – R3 – Matthew Williamson
ID: RIB57413
Animal Name:
SARGENT BEST
Code:
Harness
Race Date:
25/07/2025
Race Club:
NZ Metropolitan Trotting Club Inc
Race Location:
Addington Raceway - 75 Jack Hinton Drive, Addington, Christchurch, 8024
Race Number:
R3
Hearing Date:
25/07/2025
Hearing Location:
Addington TC
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Driver Matthew Williamson is fined $300
BACKGROUND:
Following the running of Race 3, Matthew Williamson, admitted a breach of the Whip Rules in that, as the Driver of SARGENT BEST in the race, he “used his whip with more than a wrist flicking motion in the run home”.
Rule 869 provides:
(2) No driver shall during any race use a whip in a manner in contravention of the Use of the Whip Regulations made by the Board.
The Whip and Rein Regulations provide:
3.1 A driver may only apply the whip in a wrist only flicking motion whilst holding a rein in each hand with the tip of the whip pointed forward in an action which does not engage the shoulder.
3.2 For the purposes of clause 3.1, “wrist only flicking motion” means:
3.2.1 Ensuring no force is generated by the use of the elbow or shoulder when applying the whip.
EVIDENCE:
Stipendiary Steward, Nigel McIntyre showed a video replay of the home straight. He pointed out SARGENT BEST, driven by Mr Williamson. He showed that there were three strikes, which were more than a wrist flicking motion.
Mr Williamson agreed the three strikes were clear.
DECISION:
The charge having been admitted, it is deemed proved.
SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:
Mr McIntyre referred to the Penalty Guide starting points for low-level first breaches – $300 fine or 2-days suspension. He submitted that this breach was in the low-range, therefore, the appropriate starting point was a $300 fine.
Mr Williamson did not make submissions.
REASONS FOR PENALTY:
A fine of $300 is the appropriate penalty in this case, given the Penalty Guide and lack of any aggravating factors.
CONCLUSION:
Mr Williamson is fined $300.
Decision Date: 25/07/2025
Publish Date: 01/08/2025