Oamaru HRC 15 October 2023 – R3 – Matt Purvis

Mr Williams alleged that in Race 3, Mr Purvis (PICCADILLY PETE), used his whip free of the rein in the run home.

Mr Williams demonstrated the incident on the videos. Early in the home straight, the Respondent, who was racing near the front of the field, activated gear and used his whip free of the rein on one occasion.  He said the Stewards had warned Mr Purvis earlier in the meeting with respect to this.

Mr Purvis did not disagree with Mr Williams and explained the cord for the ear-plugs had become entangled and, in his haste to recover from this, he used the whip free of the rein.  He had thought at the time he had the reins in his hands.

Decision

As Mr Purvis has admitted the breach, it is found to be proved.

Submissions as to penalty

Mr Williams produced the Respondent’s record which showed that Mr Purvis had had 2 drives this season and none the last. His record was clear. Mr Williams submitted the breach was low-range.

Decision as to penalty

Mr Purvis has used his whip free of the rein on 1 occasion in the home straight. The Penalty Guide provides a starting point of a fine of $300 or a 2-day suspension for a first such breach. The breach is low-range but is aggravated by the earlier related warning. A penalty just below the starting point is appropriate.

Penalty

Mr Purvis is fined the sum of $250.