Whangarei RC - 26 May 2010 - R 8

RACEDAY JUDICIAL COMMITTEE DECISION

Informant:  Mr A Coles

Defendant:  Miss S Spratt

Information No: 7600

Meeting: Whangarei Racing Club

Date:  26 May 2010

Venue:  Ruakaka

Race:  8

Rule No:  638 (3b)

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

Plea:  Admitted

CHARGES:

Following Race 8 an Information was filed pursuant to Rule 638 (3b).  The Informant Mr Coles alleged that Miss Spratt used the whip excessively on her mount CHARLIE BROWN.

FACTS:

Mr Oatham demonstrated the video films and pointed out to the Committee Miss Spratt’s mount, CHARLIE BROWN, racing in a position approximately 5 horses off the rail.  Approaching the 400 metres it was clear in the video films, that from that point, until the 200 metres, Miss Spratt strike her mount approximately 12 times without giving the required respite.

Miss Spratt, in admitting the breach, had nothing to say.

SUBMISSION(s) ON PENALTY:

Mr Coles said it was clearly evident Miss Spratt’s whip actions were in excess of the guidelines.  However it was nearly 12 months since her last whip charge and she had immediately admitted the breach.  He submitted a fine of $200 - $300 would be appropriate.

Miss Spratt, when asked, had nothing further to add.

REASON(s):

The Committee considered all the submissions and evidence as presented.  We give credit to Miss Spratt for her admission of the breach and her good record.  Although it was clearly evident she was in excess of the whip guidelines we observe the breach to be at the lower end.

PENALTY:

Accordingly after taking the above facts into account we impose a fine of $200.

Richard Seabrook                    Duncan Johnstone

CHAIR                                     Committee Member

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