Wairio TC 9 February 2025 – R6 – Bradley Williamson

Mr Munro alleged that in Race 6, Mr B Williamson when driving CAPTAIN AMORE, forced BANSHEE ABBEY (Mr Ferguson) wider on the track passing the 1900 metres.

Mr Munro demonstrated the incident on the videos. The Respondent was racing on the fence shortly after the start, with Mr Ferguson racing in a position outside Mr Williamson’s wheel. Mr Williamson came out, forcing BANSHEE ABBEY 3 wide on the track briefly. Mr Ferguson was steadying BANSHEE ABBEY at the time, and he then raced 2-wide on Mr Williamson’s back before Mr Williamson eventually went to the lead.  BANSHEE ABBEY raced 2-wide and weakened out of the race nearing the home turn. Mr Williamson finished 1st.

Mr Williamson said he had shifted out a few strides too early. There was always going to be room. It was only a couple of strides and while he had gained an advantage, he believed it had not affected the result of the race as he was going to get the run anyway. Mr Ferguson had paced roughly for 3 or 4 strides and had thereafter raced out 2-wide. Mr Williamson emphasised he had never been charged under this Rule before.

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 Mr Williamson has had 4649 lifetime drives, 43 this season and 273 the last. It is clear under this Rule. Mr Munro noted that the Penalty Guide indicated a $200 starting point. He said Mr Williamson had gone on to win the race and he had got out 3 or 4 strides before he should.

Mr Williamson reiterated there was always going to be room for him to take the run.

Reasons for Penalty

Mr Williamson has made a misjudgement. Mr Ferguson was not pushing forward at the time, he was simply racing outside Mr Williamson’s wheel. The Penalty Guide provides a starting point of a $200 fine for a first breach. No reduction from this starting point is appropriate for admission of the breach and excellent record, as this has to be balanced against the fact Mr Williamson went on to take the lead and eventually win the race.

Conclusion

Mr Williamson is fined the sum of $200.