Timaru HRC 3 December 2025 – R1 – Daniel Roberts

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 1, Stipendiary Steward Mr Shane Renault presented an Information alleging a breach of Rule 869(3)(b) by Amateur Driver Mr Dan Roberts.

Mr Roberts stated he understood the Charge, was conversant with the Rule and he confirmed he did admit the breach.

Mr Renault played the video and had Stipendiary Steward Mr Matt Sole identify Mr Roberts (JUDGEMENT BAY) drawn 4 at the mobile start, beginning quickly to contest the lead racing into the first bend. Mr Renault said Mr Roberts had LILY’S A STAR (B Wilmot) to his inside and inside that horse was WATERHOLES ROAD (J Buckland-Stevens). Mr Renault pointed to Mr Roberts shift down the track dictating Mr Wilmot into the racing line of WATERHOLES ROAD, which was checked and paced roughly for a several strides.

Mr Roberts agreed with Mr Renault’s assessment of the incident.

DECISION:

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

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Renault said Mr Roberts had 8 drives this season and has a clear record under the Rule.

He said the opinion of the Stewards was this was a mid- range breach, and he would leave it to the Adjudicative Committee to set the Penalty.

Mr Roberts said he would prefer a suspension rather than a fine and if that was possible, he would like to start it immediately.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Penalty Guidelines provide a $500 fine or a 2-day suspension for a mid-range breach, first offence.

The Adjudicative Committee considers this breach to be mid-range; WATERHOLES ROAD has lost several lengths in the incident.

Mr Roberts’ request to receive a suspension over a fine is granted and accordingly, he is suspended for 2 days, which for an Amateur Driver equates to a month’s suspension.

CONCLUSION:

Amateur Driver Mr Dan Roberts’ Licence to drive in races is suspended from the conclusion of racing today, up to and including racing on 3 January 2026.