Avondale JC 7 May 2010 - R 4 (request for a ruling)
632
RACEDAY JUDICIAL COMMITTEE DECISION
Informant: Mr G Cooksley
Defendant: N/A
Information No: 41028 (request for a ruling)
Meeting: Avondale Jockey Club
Date: 7 May 2010
Venue: Avondale
Race: 4
Rule No: 632
Judicial Committee: R M Seabrook, Chairman – G Tankard, Committee Member
FACTS:
Following Race 4 an Information was filed pursuant to Rule 632. The Informant, Mr G Cooksley, rider of ALLCASH, requested a ruling as to whether his mount was afforded a fair start.
Mr Cooksley explained to the Committee that just prior to the gates opening an attendant was holding his horse and had turned its head sideways. Mr Cooksley said at the time the gates opened he did not have a proper hold of the reigns. He further stated that he became unbalanced as he jumped out and felt he was in danger of falling off. He said he had called to the Starter who obviously did not hear his call. Mr Cooksley also said his mount always races on the pace and on this occasion there was no doubt he was denied a fair start because he lost approximately 6 lengths.
The Starter, Mr Harrison, stated they have had the odd problems with this horse previously, but added he did not hear any call from Mr Cooksley on this occasion.
Mr Oatham demonstrated the film which showed ALLCASH’S head turned sideways as the gates were opening and Mr Cooksley’s arm appeared to be resting on the gate.
Mr Neal said Mr Cooksley was clear in his mind that ALLCASH was denied a fair start and this was supported by the film.
DECISION:
The Committee considered all evidence as presented and are clearly satisfied that ALLCASH was denied a fair start in Race 4. The films showed the horse’s head turned sideways with Mr Cooksley obviously not in control of his mount as the gates opened. This caused ALLCASH to lose several lengths meaning he was tailed off instead of racing in his customary forward position.
Accordingly we declare ALLCASH a non-runner.
R Seabrook G Tankard
CHAIR Committee Member
41028
