Date: 18 June 2015
Panel: D Farquharson, L Wilson, C McLune
Racing Queensland Stewards today resumed their inquiry into the driving tactics adopted by Narissa McMullen (LOUBOUTIN NZ) in Race 2 the Seymour Rising Stars Championship Final at Albion Park on Saturday 6 June. This inquiry was adjourned to allow stewards to review previous performances of LOUBOUTIN NZ and to make further investigations regarding wagering information.
After consideration, Miss McMullen was charged pursuant to Australian Harness Racing Rule 149(2) which states:
A person shall not drive in a manner which in the opinion of the stewards is unacceptable.
The particulars of the charge being the driving tactics adopted by Miss McMullen whereby she continued to pressure LOUBOUTIN NZ in an endeavour to obtain the lead from the 2138 metre starting point until passing the 1660 metres, when it was evident that LUMOS (W Komorowski) had obtained the leading position and was holding that position comfortably were unacceptable.
Miss N McMullen was found guilty of the rule and her licence to drive in races was suspended for a period of 4 weeks. In assessing the matter of penalty, Stewards took into account Miss McMullen’s good record in relation to this type of offence.
Stewards directed that this term of suspension be served cumulatively with a 3 week suspension imposed on Saturday 13 June 2015.
Miss N McMullen was advised of her rights to appeal.
