Riverton TC 28 January 2024 – R7 – Nathan Williamson
ID: RIB38444
Animal Name:
SIDOROVA
Code:
Harness
Race Date:
28/01/2024
Race Club:
Riverton Trotting Club
Race Location:
Riverton Racecourse - State Highway 99, Riverton,
Race Number:
R7
Hearing Date:
28/01/2024
Hearing Location:
Riverton
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Driver Nathan Williamson is fined $300
Mr Munro alleged that in Race 7, Mr N Williamson (SIDOROVA) used his whip with more than a wrist flicking motion in the run home.
Mr Munro demonstrated the incident on the videos. The Respondent was urging his horse in the run down the straight and 3 strikes were non-compliant.
Mr Williamson accepted the Stewards’ analysis of the video.
Decision
As Mr Williamson has admitted the breach, it is found to be proved.
Submissions as to Penalty
Mr Munro produced the Respondent’s record which showed that Mr Williamson has had 36 drives this season and 416 the last. He has had 8557 lifetime drives. His record is clear, although Mr Williamson was warned 36 drives ago. Mr Munro submitted the breach was low level due to the Respondent returning to a compliant style.
Mr Williamson stated he preferred a fine and that it should be as low as possible in the circumstances.
Reasons for Penalty
The breach is low level. Mr Williamson has used his whip in breach of the Whip Rule and the Whip and Rein Regulations on 3 occasions in the home straight. The Penalty Guide provides a starting point of a fine of $300 for a first such breach. Mr Williamson finished second in the race. Mitigating factors are that Mr Williamson has a clear record under this Rule and returned to a compliant style. A penalty at the starting point is appropriate.
Conclusion
Mr Williamson is fined the sum of $300.
Decision Date: 28/01/2024
Publish Date: 01/02/2024