Wyndham HRC 12 October 2023 – R9 (Request for a Ruling) – MAMMA MIA

ID: RIB28581

Respondent(s):
Kerryn Tomlinson - Junior Driver

Applicant:
Mr Shane Renault, Stipendiary Steward

Adjudicators:
Geoff Hall

Persons Present:
Mr Renault, Ms Tomlinson, Mr Ward, Starter

Information Number:
A17144

Decision Type:
Request for Ruling

Rule(s):
213(1)(j) - Other

Request for Ruling:
Whether MAMMA MIA gained a fair start

Animal Name:
MAMMA MIA

Code:
Harness

Race Date:
12/10/2023

Race Club:
Wyndham Harness Racing Club

Race Location:
Wyndham Racecourse - Alma St, Wyndham, 9892

Race Number:
R9

Hearing Date:
12/10/2023

Hearing Location:
Wyndham

Outcome: Determination

Penalty: N/A

Mr Renault sought a Ruling as to determine whether MAMMA MIA was denied a fair start in Race 9.

Ms Tomlinson, the Driver of MAMMA MIA, stated that her horse had galloped because the mobile had eased.  She said the mobile had come back into her face. She was not sure whether MAMMA MIA had come into contact with the gate.

Mr Ward, the Starter, gave evidence. He said there was no set speed at which the mobile has to travel. It was a little slower on this occasion as the field was disorganised and he was allowing horses to catch the mobile. He had started at a slow speed and was gradually building it up. He emphasised he had not slowed down and MAMMA MIA was the only horse to break on the gate.

Ruling

The Starter’s evidence is clear, and the videos do not evidence any reduction in speed by the mobile. All of the other horses that were on the gate remained in their correct gait. MAMMA MIA was on the bit and was the only horse to break. No responsibility for MAMMA MIA losing its gait can be attached to the manner in which the race was started.

The Adjudicative Committee determined that MAMMA MIA had not been denied a fair start and advised the Stewards accordingly.

Decision Date: 12/10/2023

Publish Date: 18/10/2023