Waikouaiti RC 14 January 2023 – R8 – Jason Laking

ID: RIB14355

Respondent(s):
Jason Laking - Jockey

Applicant:
Mark Davidson, Stipendiary Steward

Adjudicators:
Geoff Hall

Information Number:
A16098

Decision Type:
Race Related Charge

Charge:
whip used above the shoulder

Rule(s):
638(3)(f)(ii) - Contravention whip rule

Plea:
Admitted

Animal Name:
CEDDY SMITH

Code:
Thoroughbred

Race Date:
14/01/2023

Race Club:
Waikouaiti Racing Club

Race Location:
Wingatui Racecourse - 285 Gladstone Road North, Mosgiel, Dunedin,

Race Number:
R8

Hearing Date:
14/01/2023

Hearing Location:
Dunedin

Outcome: Proved

Penalty: Jockey Jason Laking is fined $250

Background

Mr Davidson alleged that in Race 8 Mr Laking used his whip in an action that was above shoulder height on 4 occasions.

Mr Davidson demonstrated on the videos that the Respondent had shifted outwards in the home straight and was making a run 3 off the fence when he struck his mount CEDDY SMITH four times with his whip above shoulder height. Mr Laking said he had a made a mistake and he had not realised his whip use was that high. He had been concentrating on keeping his horse’s mind on the job.

 Decision

As Mr Laking has admitted the breach, it is found to be proved.

Submissions as to Penalty

Mr Davidson produced the Respondent’s record which was clear under this Rule. He said generally the Respondent’s whip use was very good. However, he had had a warning on 1 September last. Mr Davidson stated there was no starting point in the Penalty Guide for this particular breach, but he believed a penalty in accordance with previous decisions was appropriate. Mr Laking accepted this.

Reasons for Penalty

Mr Laking has admitted using his whip on 4 occasions above shoulder height. A review of previous decisions for this breach of the Rules reveals that a fine of $250 has frequently been imposed. There are no aggravating circumstances and there is no need to depart from these precedents.

Conclusion

Mr Laking is fined the sum of $250 and is reminded of his obligations under the Whip Rules.

Decision Date: 14/01/2023

Publish Date: 17/01/2023