Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC) Stewards today concluded an inquiry into the driving tactics adopted by Mathew Neilson on Big Abraxas in Race 8 at Albion Park on Tuesday, 25 October 2016. After taking initial evidence Stewards adjourned the inquiry in order to review previous performances of Big Abraxas and investigate wagering on the event.
On resumption and after considering further evidence including phone records, Stewards did not accept the explanation for the manner in which Mr Neilson drove Big Abraxas over the final 200 metres in that event. Stewards were of the opinion that Mr Neilson’s actions were conscious and deliberate which did not allow Big Abraxas to race on its merits. In forming this opinion Stewards were critical of Mr Neilson’s decision not to direct Big Abraxas into the sprint lane when he had full opportunity to do so and which was in direct contrast to its recent starts. Mr Neilson’s distinct lack of vigour, the positioning of his hands at his chest and the obvious tight rein which he had on Big Abraxas was not indicative of a driver contesting a finish, nor was it consistent with his recent drives on Big Abraxas.
Stewards issued charges against Mr Neilson pursuant to the Australian Harness Racing rules as follows:
Charge 1
147.(1) “A driver shall race a horse on its merits.”
147. (2) “Action or non action by a driver during the course of a race which prevents or impedes the horse driven by that driver from racing on its merits shall be sufficient to establish non compliance with sub rule (10).”
The particulars of the charge being, that Mr Neilson, as the driver of Big Abraxas in Race 8 at Albion Park on Tuesday, 25 October 2016, when trailing Leighmont approaching the final turn and afforded first use of the sprint lane, failed to take the run when full opportunity to do so was available and which would have allowed Big Abraxas a clear and uninterrupted run to the finish. Further, from the top of the home straight Big Abraxas was held on a tight rein which is in contrast to its recent racing pattern and his direct actions failed to allow Big Abraxas to race on its merits.
Charge 2
149.(1) “A driver shall take all reasonable and permissible measures during the course of a race to ensure that the horse driven by that driver is given full opportunity to win or obtain the best possible placing in the field.”
The particulars of the charge being, that Mr Neilson, as the driver of Big Abraxas in Race 8 at Albion Park on Tuesday, 25 October 2016, when trailing Leighmont approaching the final turn and afforded first use of the sprint lane, failed to take the run when it was reasonable and permissible to do so and when full opportunity was presented which would have allowed Big Abraxas a clear and uninterrupted run to the finish. Further, from the top of the home straight Big Abraxas was held on a tight rein which is in contrast to its recent racing pattern when it was reasonable and permissible to drive the horse out in the run to the finish.
Mr Neilson pleaded not guilty to charge 1 and charge 2.
After due consideration Stewards were of the view that both charges could be sustained and formally found Mr Neilson guilty.
When assessing the matter of penalty Stewards were mindful of the following:
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The serious nature of the charges
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Mr Neilson’s licence history and his personal and financial situation
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The particular circumstances of the case
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The need for the penalty to serve as a deterrent to illustrate the paramount importance of the integrity of Harness Racing
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Penalty precedents
After consideration Stewards imposed the following penalties:
Charge 1 – Disqualification for a period of 12 months effective immediately
Charge 2 – Suspension of licence for a period of 6 months
In accordance with AHR Rule 150(3), Stewards directed that the penalty imposed under Rule 149(1) be suspended pending the decision on any subsequent appeal or right of review.
Stewards’ Report – Mathew Neilson
Date – 25 October 2016
Panel – P Zimmermann, N Torpey, M Ross