Rangiora HRC 19 February 2022 – R1 – Barry White

SUMMARY OF FACTS:

Following the running of Race 1 an Information was presented by Stipendiary Steward Mr Paul Williams alleging a breach of Rule 869(3)(b) by Amatuer Driver Mr Barry White. The detail of the Information was that “on the final bend you allowed your runner to contact a sulky wheel causing it to gallop and lose its chance.”

Mr Williams stated Mr White had originally denied the breach but on viewing the videos had changed his plea to one of admittance.

Mr Williams replayed the race videos to identify Mr White driving THE OPTIMIST who was positioned 3 wide and 3 back rounding the final bend. He slowed the video to show Mr White begin to shift his horse outwards and pointed to THE OPTIMIST’S near side fore hoof make contact with DALNESS FIRST ‘S  (K McClintock) offside sulky wheel. Mr Williams stated the Stewards interviewed Mr McClintock who confirmed contact was made.

Mr White had Mr Matthew Williamson (Open Driver) attend the hearing as his support person. Mr White stated his horse was on a knee and had also thrown a shoe. Mr White and Mr Williamson both made the observation that there was general movement outwards prior to Mr White beginning his shift and that the incident was only a very slight misjudgment.

DECISION:

As the breach was admitted, it was deemed proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Williams stated Mr White had a clear record under this Rule. He said this good record is offset by the consequence of THE OPTIMIST losing all chance by galloping. He said the Stewards were seeking a fine of $300 on this occasion.

Mr White and Mr Williamson made no submissions on Penalty.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Penalty Guidelines provide a 6 drive suspension or a $300 fine starting point any time a Driver hits a wheel.

As alluded to by Mr Williams, Mr White has a good record concerning this Rule but the consequences of his actions have extinguished his horse’s chances.

After considering all factors, the Adjudicative Committee determined that a fine would be the appropriate penalty in this case.

CONCLUSION:

The Adjudicative Committee in considering the evidence finds an appropriate penalty, in this case, is a fine of $300.