Oamaru HRC 8 March 2023 – R4 – Kimberly Butt

ID: RIB16859

Respondent(s):
Kimberly Butt - Driver

Applicant:
Mr Paul Williams, Stipendiary Steward

Adjudicators:
Geoff Hall

Information Number:
A21139

Decision Type:
Race Related Charge

Charge:
hitting track marker

Rule(s):
869(7A)(a) - Riding/driving infringement

Plea:
Admitted

Animal Name:
HES SANTA EXCUSE

Code:
Harness

Race Date:
08/03/2023

Race Club:
Oamaru Harness Racing Club

Race Location:
Oamaru Racecourse - Highway 1, Oamaru North, Oamaru, 9494

Race Number:
R4

Hearing Date:
08/03/2023

Hearing Location:
Oamaru

Outcome: Proved

Penalty: Driver Kimberly Butt is fined $100

Mr Williams alleged that Ms K Butt (HES SANTAS EXCUSE) shifted inwards and struck the final track marker prior to the passing lane in Race 4.

Evidence

Mr Williams demonstrated on the videos that Ms Butt, who was racing in the trail, struck the track marker prior to the passing lane in the home straight the final time. Ms Butt said she was looking to take the passing lane run and had misjudged it.

Decision

As Ms Butt has admitted the breach, it is found to be proved.

Submissions as to Penalty

Mr Williams said Ms Butt had been warned previously on two occasions with respect to this Rule.  He submitted a $100 fine as per the Penalty Guide was appropriate. Ms Butt accepted this.

Reasons for Penalty

The breach is low end. It is an error of judgement on Ms Butt’s part. She has shifted in just a little too soon and has hit the marker. There is no obvious advantage. Having regard to the circumstances, a penalty in accordance with the Guide is appropriate.

Conclusion

A fine of $100 is imposed.

Decision Date: 08/03/2023

Publish Date: 09/03/2023