Stewards questioned Trainer, Mr. John Mangion regarding the number of starts Hitomi Bale has had over the past month - 8 starts in 28 days. Mr Mangion stated that the greyhound doesn't trial between races, is checked regularly and the greyhound races in good form with this strategy. Stewards noted Mr Mangions explanation.

Oriental Gale, Silky Rose and All Inn Tilly collided approaching the first turn. Crown Knox checked off Oriental Gale on the first turn. Silky Rose and All Inn Tilly on the first turn checking Oriental Gale. Hitomi Bale turned its head and visbly eased approaching the winning post.

Hitomi Bale underwent a post-race veterinary examination and was found to have an injury to the right abdominal muscle. A 10 day stand down period was imposed. Stewards spoke to Mr J. Mangion the Trainer, regarding the greyhounds racing manners approaching the winning post. Acting under the provisions of GAR 69(B)(1), Hitomi Bale was charged with failing to pursue the lure with due commitment (by reason of injury). Mr Mangion pleaded guilty to the charge, Hitomi Bale must perform a Satisfactory Trial (all tracks) pursuant to GAR 69(B)(1)(a) before any future nomination will be accepted.

Stewards spoke to handler Mr P. Smoor regarding an incident behind the boxes in which Crown Knox became loose.  Mr Smoor was subsequently fined $100 for a breach of GAR 27 (1) in that he did not have proper control of a greyhound on a racecourse. 

Crown Knox – Proved difficult to box and will be boxed first in future events in accordance with GAR 52