Waikato BOP H 12 August 2021 – R6 – Geoffrey Martin

SUMMARY OF FACTS:

Following Race 6 an Information was presented alleging that Mr Martin had breached the Rule and Regulations in that he ‘crossed his reins throughout the home straight’.

Mr Martin was present at the hearing and acknowledged that he:

Understood the Rule and Regulations, and that he

Admitted the Breach.

Rule 869(2) provides that ‘No driver shall during any race use a whip in a manner in contravention of the Use of the Whip Regulations made by the Board’.

The Whip & Rein Regulations (clause 4.5) provide that ‘A driver must drive throughout the race with a hand on each rein ( subject to clause 4.7)’

Clause 4.7 states ‘A driver must not cross the reins except (a) when activating gear, or (b) for safety reasons’

SUBMISSIONS:

Mr Mulcay referred to the films of the horses as they ran up the final straight. He identified RANDOM JUDE, driven by Mr Martin which was on the pegs behind the leaders. It was apparent on the films that Mr Martin crossed the reins and applied his whip to the horse without undue force.

Mr Martin acknowledged that he had erred in crossing his reins, saying that he was a ‘ slow learner’.

REASON FOR DECISION:

As Mr Martin has admitted the breach the charge is proved.

SUBMISSION FOR PENALTY:

Mr Mulcay said that Mr Martin had been warned previously for this breach, hence the reason for the charge. He said the breach was at the lower end of the scale and submitted that a fine of $200 as indicated in the Guide would be appropriate. Mr Martin had nothing to add.

REASON FOR PENALTY:

The Committee saw no reason to vary the suggested fine of $200. The breach was at the lowest level.

CONCLUSIONS:

A fine of $200 was imposed.