Otaki-Maori RC 6 May 2022 – R5 – Andrew Davies

Evidence:

Stipendiary Steward Mr K Coppins lodged an Information with the Adjudicative Committee alleging a breach of Rule 534(1) in that Trainer Andrew Davies scratched LIVINGONTHEEDGE from Race 5 after the designated time of 7:30am.

Mr Goodwin said Mr Davies rung him while the Stewards were travelling to the races saying that he was considering scratching his horse from Race 5 due to the heavy track conditions. He based his assessment of the track on the advice of Jockey Mr Tony Allan. Mr Davies had got busy with the horses and hadn’t scratched prior to the deadline.

Mr Davies officially withdrew his horse at 10.20am.

Decision:

As Mr Davies admitted the breach the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved.

Submission for Penalty:

No specific penalty submissions were put to the Adjudicative Committee.

Reasons for Penalty:

The Penalty Guide provides two starting points for breaches of this Rule:

scratching after 7:30am – no horse denied a start – $200

scratching after 7:30am – horse denied a start – $350

Mr Davies officially scratched his horse almost 3 hours after closing time. No other horse was denied a start.

The Stewards did not advise the Adjudicative Committee of any aggravating or mitigating factors.

Conclusion:

Considering all factors Mr Davies is fined the sum of $200.