Stewards reportOriginally Posted by Messenger
Matthew Craven, driver of Big Gun Johnny, was found guilty of a charge issued under Rule 165(1)(b) which states: from the start through the first turn until reaching the next straight a driver shall not move the driver’s horse towards the inside running line unless the rear of the driver’s sulky is at least 1 metre clear of the extended from legs of the horse racing in the next position closer to the inside running line. The particulars of the charge being that racing to and passing the winning post shortly after the start, Mr Craven permitted Big Gun Johnny to shift inwards in an attempt to obtain the lead, when not sufficiently clear of Tingira Beach, resulting in that colt being tightened for racing room and being positioned inside the line of marker pegs, before galloping some distance thereafter. In assessing penalty stewards took into account Mr Craven’s clear recent record in relation to similar matters, that the incident occurred racing into the first turn which generally carries a greater penalty, the relevant rule and charge issued in this instance and the consequential effects of this incident. Mr Craven’s licence to drive in races was suspended for a period of 3 weeks to commence midnight 30 August 2016 and he was also fined $500...
Near the 1300m Scooterwillrev, which was racing in the position three back on the marker peg line, was inconvenienced as the pace eased slightly and after that gelding hung out, Tingira Beach which was over-racing, made contact with the near side sulky wheel of Scooterwillrev causing Tingira Beach to gallop, which in turn resulted in San Domino, which was following, being checked with that colt racing inside the line of marker pegs and pacing roughly and in turn Wardan Express being checked. In view of the pace easing and the racing manners of Scooterwillrev and Tingira Beach which contributed to this incident, no further action was deemed necessary.
In the last six weeks there's been significant interference to highly favoured runners by professional A Grade drivers resulting in suspensions in two Group One's, a Group Two and a Metropolitan Final. Not to forget the mental and physical injuries sustained to valuable young horses....and to think there is a need to impose further restrictions on B Grade drivers competing in country front races at Melton to prevent tarnishing of the brand? http://www.harness.org.au/news-artic...?news_id=30766
I would be more concerned at the impact of placing further restrictions on participation when participation numbers are dwindling, remembering that a great number of B Grade drivers are breeders and owners.
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