NZ Metro TC 27 July 2025 – R1 – Michael House

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 1, Stipendiary Steward Mr Matt Sole presented an Information alleging a breach of the Home Straight Regulations by Amateur Driver Mr Michael House.

Mr House stated he understood the Rule and the Charge and did not admit the breach.

Mr Sole showed the home straight video and identified Mr House (WARLOCH) one off the pylons and leading the field. Mr Sole said Mr House has failed to maintain a straight line in the run home, resulting in a trailing runner being hampered. Mr Sole showed the head on, side on and rear videos and although he admitted there was some movement inwards from an outside runner, Mr House was in breach of the Regulations.

Mr House used the videos and said his horse has followed the racing marks on the track until the 200m, where it has moved out a half a cart momentarily, but was straightened. He said the horse which was alleged to be hampered, had the opportunity the finish down the outside, but its Driver chose the inside, where it was dictated into a closing space by an outside runner.

REASONS FOR DECISION:

The Adjudicative Committee observed that WARLOCH has followed the racing marks on the track early in the home straight. These marks do angle up the track slightly, and WARLOCH has drifted half a sulky width off these marks for a few strides, but Mr House has corrected his horse in a reasonably timely manner.

The Adjudicative Committee finds Mr House was not a major contributor to the trailing runner being hampered and accordingly, dismissed the charge.

CONCLUSION:

The Charge is dismissed.