Avondale JC - 8 April 2010 - R 1

RACEDAY JUDICIAL COMMITTEE DECISION

Informant:  Mr Williamson

Defendant:  Mr C Leveque

Information No:  7629

Meeting:  Avondale Jockey Club

Date:  8 April 2010

Venue:  Avondale

Race:  1

Rule No:  638(3)(b)

Judicial Committee:  R Seabrook, Chairman – D Johnstone, Committee Member 

Following Race 1 an Information was filed pursuant to rule 638 (3) (b).  The Informant, Mr Williamson, alleged that Mr C Leveque, rider of KOUSSO, used his whip in an excessive manner.

Mr Leveque admitted the breach.

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Mr Oatham demonstrated the video films which clearly showed Mr Leveque striking his mount approximately 15 times before the 200 metres.

Mr Leveque told the committee he understood the rule and his obligations but in this case lost count of the number of strikes he was giving his mount.

PENALTY SUBMISSIONS

Mr Williamson said this was Mr Leveque’s first charge under this rule and submitted a fine of not less than $200 would be appropriate. 

PENALTY

The Committee considered the evidence and submissions as presented.  Mitigating factors were Mr Leveque’s guilty plea and that this was his first whip charge.  However Mr Leveque’s actions on this occasion were well outside the whip guidelines which he was aware of.

The Committee reminded Mr Leveque of his obligations before imposing a fine of $225.00

Richard Seabrook                    D Johnstone

CHAIR                                     Committee Member

7629