Reefton TC 12 March 2023 – R10 – John Morrison
ID: RIB16989
Animal Name:
GOTTA TICKET
Code:
Harness
Race Date:
12/03/2023
Race Club:
Reefton Trotting Club
Race Location:
Reefton Racecourse - Lower Broadway,, Reefton,
Race Number:
R10
Hearing Date:
12/03/2023
Hearing Location:
Reefton Racecourse
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Driver John Morrison is fined $200.
BACKGROUND:
Following the running of Race 10, an Information was presented by RIB Steward Mr Matt Sole, alleging a breach of Rule 858(1)(a) by Driver John Morrison (GOTTA TICKET). The detail of the Information stated that Mr Morrison anticipated the start and breasted the barrier strand resulting in a false start being declared.
Rule 858(1)(a) provides that:
A Driver may not:
- Delay the start.
EVIDENCE:
Mr Sole showed the video of the start to identify Mr Morrison (GOTTA TICKET) who was drawn 2 and had only one other horse with it on the front line. Mr Sole pointed to Mr Morrison turn his horse towards the barrier and allow it to jog forward, anticipating the start. He showed GOTTA TICKET breasted hard against the barrier strand and moving further forward as the field was released.
Mr Morrison said his horse needed to be on the move as it could swing sideways if checked when called into line. He said it was a matter of timing and he got it wrong.
DECVISION:
The charge is admitted by the Respondent and is therefore deemed proved.
SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:
Mr Sole said Mr Morrison had a clear record under this Rule. He said he is a very busy Driver and had 701 drives last season and has had 147 in the current one. He said Stewards were seeking a fine of $200 for this breach given the mitigating factors given in Mr Morrison’s favour.
Mr Morrison made no submissions on Penalty.
REASONS FOR PENALTY:
The RIB Harness Racing Penalty Guide (effective 1 February 2023) shows a starting point for Penalty of a $300 fine.
Mr Morrison’s clear record and frank admission demands a discount and the Adjudicative Committee find a $200 fine is an appropriate penalty in this case.
CONCLUSION:
The Respondent is fined $200.
Decision Date: 12/03/2023
Publish Date: 13/03/2023