Reefton TC 12 March 2023 – R4 – Olivia Thornley

ID: RIB16983

Respondent(s):
Olivia Thornley - Junior Driver

Applicant:
RIB Steward Mr Matt Sole

Adjudicators:
Dave Anderson

Persons Present:
Mr Sole, Ms Thornley and RIB Steward Mr Shane Renault

Information Number:
A21404

Decision Type:
Race Related Charge

Charge:
Careless Driving striking a wheel.

Rule(s):
869(3)(b) - Riding/driving infringement

Plea:
Admitted

Animal Name:
IT'S ME

Code:
Harness

Race Date:
12/03/2023

Race Club:
Reefton Trotting Club

Race Location:
Reefton Racecourse - Lower Broadway,, Reefton,

Race Number:
R4

Hearing Date:
12/03/2023

Hearing Location:
Reefton Racecourse

Outcome: Proved

Penalty: Junior Driver Olivia Thornley is fined $250.

BACKGROUND:

Following the running of Race 4, RIB Steward Mr Matt Sole presented an Information alleging a breach of Rule 869(3)(b) by Junior Driver Ms Olivia Thornley.

The detail of the Information was Ms Thornley drove carelessly when striking the wheel of GOSAKHI (S O’Reilly) near the 500 metres.

Ms Thornley stated she was conversant with the Rule, she understood the charge and that she admitted the breach. Ms Thornley declined the assistance of a Senior Driver at the hearing.

EVIDENCE:

Mr Sole played the video of the relevant part of the race, slowed and magnified the picture to show Ms Thornley’s horse IT’S ME glance the off side tyre of GOSAKHI. Mr Sole said the tyre of GOSAKHI deflated at this juncture.

Ms Thornley made no comment.

DECISION:

The charge is admitted by the Respondent and is therefore deemed proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Sole stated Ms Thornley had 95 drives last season and has had 30 drives this season. He said Ms Thornley deserved some leniency from the Penalty Guide starting point.

Ms Thornley made no submissions on Penalty.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Penalty Guide provides a starting point of a $300 fine any time a Driver hits a wheel. Ms Thornley has admitted the breach and together with her clear record, is afforded a discount of $50.

Accordingly, the Adjudicative Committee find a $250 fine is an appropriate penalty in this case.

CONCLUSION:

Junior Driver Olivia Thornley is fined $250.

Decision Date: 12/03/2023

Publish Date: 13/03/2023