I occasionally get it right (not that it makes me feel good in this instance). Prior to the race, I made a point of emphasising two drivers who weren't fit to drive in a Group 1 race by the names of Mal Whiteford and Alex Douglas and whilst I hate to say I told you so ...............
Would like to think that this may be the catalyst for new drivers regulations to be implemented for Metro meetings but won't hold my breath as the same thing has been happening for years.
Stewards Report from the Group 1 Vicbred 3yo final
http://www.harness.org.au/stewards-reports-detail.cfm?mc=JV040610
RACE 5 – SKY RACING VICBRED SUPER SERIES (3YO COLTS & GELDINGS) FINAL (GROUP 1) (2240m MS)
Pre-race blood samples were taken from Jack Hall, Composed, Cuttheattitude and David Hercules.
Driver Mal Whiteford (Jack Hall) was spoken to advisedly for the manner in which he tightened Grins Rendition approaching the first turn.
Mr Whiteford was also questioned regarding his tactics adopted upon Jack Hall, particularly through the early stages. Mr Whiteford stated it was his intention to initially obtain the lead and surrender such to Cuttheattitude. Approaching the first turn, Mr Whiteford explained Jack Hall had a tendency to hang in resulting in Grins Rendition to his inside being tightened and Mr Whiteford having to correct Jack Hall on several occasions before he eventually crossing that runner. Having obtained the lead Mr Whiteford added despite his efforts, Jack Hall commenced to over race before ultimately surrendering the lead to the race favourite. The explanation of Mr Whiteford was noted.
Driver Alex Douglas was found guilty of a charge under the provisions of Rule 149(1) for failing to take all reasonable and permissible measures during the course of the race to ensure Machieve was given full opportunity to win or obtain the best possible placing in the field. Machieve raced forward from the start and into the first turn in a four wide position. Machieve continued to be driven forward three wide around the first turn where Mr Douglas continued to apply pressure to the leaders in an exceptionally quick lead-time until approximately the mile. Furthermore, from approximately the mile until approximately the 1300 metres, Mr Douglas failed to give Machieve any respite by permitting Machieve to race forward and pressure Cuttheattitude. Mr Douglas's tactics through the early and middle stages were detrimental to Machieve's chances and contributed to Machieve weakening over the latter stages of the race to be placed ninth, beaten 28 metres.
A post race veterinary examination of Machieve failed to reveal any abnormalities. The drivers licence of Mr Alex Douglas was suspended for a period of eight weeks with the penalty to commence midnight Friday 4 June 2010. In assessing penalty, the Panel took into account Mr Douglas' record, the circumstances and the Group 1 status of the race amongst other factors.
Composed raced three wide throughout after being unable to obtain a position in the running line.
Turning into the back straight on the final occasion, Palais Du Louvre hung out, contacted the sulky of Antsintapants and raced roughly.
Grins Rendition tired over the latter stages to be placed last beaten 82.6 metres.
Jack In Flight was held up in the early stages of the run to the finish.
Post-race swab samples were taken from the winner David Hercules
