PARADING A HORSE IN THE ABSENCE OF DRIVER
Licensed participants in the Victorian Harness Racing industry are reminded of the relevant Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) policy in relation to the parading of horses before or after a race or trial.
HRV Protective Gear (Helmets) policy relates to Australian Harness Racing Rule (AHRR) 159A(1) & (2) and applies to any licensed person or track attendant who parades a horse in the drivers’ absence, before or after a race or trial. The requirement is that such person is required to be seated in the sulky with an approved helmet fitted and correctly fastened. Importantly, a person walking behind the sulky whilst holding the reins does not satisfy this requirement.
Any person that fails to comply with this requirement may be penalised by HRV Stewards.
DRIVERS ACTIVATING GEAR BY FOOT
In accordance with AHRR 170(1) drivers are permitted to activate gear with the use of their foot, provided the activation occurs in an acceptable manner.
An acceptable method of activating gear by foot will be considered by HRV Stewards to occur when the movement of the foot is directed in a sideways or upwards direction from the sulky footrest.
Whereas, an unacceptable method of activating gear by foot, which will not be accepted by HRV Stewards and may result in penalties being imposed, will be if the drivers foot is positioned in a downwards direction from the sulky footrest.
CONDUCT
Participants are expected to at all times display appropriate, professional and reasonable behaviour when appearing before Stewards and conversing with other officials or participants. Any person found in breach of AHRR 231(2) for misconduct is likely to incur a substantial penalty.
SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY
Participants in the Victorian Harness Racing Industry are reminded to remain aware of and comply with the expectations and obligations in regard to the HRV ‘Social Media Policy For Participants’.
The policy applies to licensed trainers, drivers, stablehands and registered owners. It is expected that the use of social media is conducted in an appropriate and reasonable manner when referring to any aspect of the harness racing industry.
Any person found in breach of this policy may be penalised by HRV Stewards.
TRIALS
Trainers and drivers ought to be aware that in accordance with the AHRR, trial programs are conducted under race conditions. Meaning, that any training or driving related matters that occur at a trial program, may be subject to investigation and action being pursued by Stewards. Participants should also be mindful that trial footage is now publicly displayed, is therefore easily accessible to Stewards, the general public and as such it is imperative that participants demonstrate compliance with the AHRR at all times.
For any queries in relation to this notice please contact the HRV Stewards Department on 8378 0222.
