Timaru HRC 28 May 2023 – R1 – Graham Sinnamon

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 1, Stipendiary Steward Mr Matt Sole presented an Information alleging a breach of Rule 869(2) by Amateur Driver Mr Graham Sinnamon.

Mr Sinnamon stated he was conversant with the Rule, understood the charge and confirmed he admitted the breach.

Mr Sole had Mr Renault identify Mr Sinnamon racing wide on the track entering the home straight. He pointed to Mr Sinnamon use his whip on many occasions throughout the run home that were non compliant. He said the strikes were not of any great force, but the number was of concern.

Mr Sinnamon said he lacks the practice and is doing his best to come to grips with the Regulations.

DECISION:

The Respondent having admitted the breach, the charge was deemed to be proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Sole said Mr Sinnamon has had 5 drives this season and was warned for his whip use on the 26 March. He said the Stewards’ assessment of this breach falls in the mid to high range and would be seeking a suspension of no less than 2 days.

Mr Sinnamon had no submissions for Penalty, but took the time to express the difficulties he has gaining a technique that is compliant with the Regulations.

REASONS FOR PENALTY.

The Penalty Guidelines provide a 2-day suspension or a $500 fine for a first breach at mid-level. In the circumstances of this case, the Adjudicative Committee’s opinion is Mr Sinnamon may have been fortunate the Stewards have based their assessment at mid-level, as he has trodden on a fine line between a mid-level and a high-level breach.

Mr Sinnamon was remorseful for his actions and is endeavouring to improve. Accordingly, the Adjudicative Committee finds a 2 day suspension, equating to one month for an Amateur Driver, is the appropriate Penalty.

CONCLUSION:

Amateur Driver Mr Graham Sinnamon, is suspended from the conclusion of racing today, up to and including, racing on the 28 June 2023.