Riccarton Park – Canterbury JC 12 July 2023 – R8 – Tina Comignaghi

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 8, Stipendiary Steward Mr Mark Davidson presented an Information alleging a breach of Rule 638(1)(d) by Class A Rider Ms Tina Comignaghi.

Ms Comignaghi stated she understood the Rule, the Charge and confirmed her admission of the breach.

Mr Davidson showed all available videos to identify Ms Comignaghi (PROSERVE) racing close to the rail and in behind the leading horses. He pointed to PROSERVE racing ungenerously which Stewards concede, but passing the 600m, Ms Comignaghi has allowed her mount to shift away from the rail when GLORIFIED (K Williams), was just a neck back to her outside. GLORIFIED had DEMAND RESPECT (B May) to her outside and forward. Ms Williams was tightened and had to check out of her rightful running line.

Mr Davidson said Ms Comignaghi can be seen trying to mitigate the situation, but the damage had taken place and she has just not done enough.

Ms Comignaghi said her mount was a very difficult ride and she was doing her best to hold it in.

DECISION:

The Respondent having admitted the breach, the charge was deemed to be proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Davidson stated Ms Comignaghi has three previous breaches in the last 12 months.

1 October 2022: 4-day suspension

29 October 2022: 4-day suspension

6 May 2023: 5-day suspension

Mr Davidson said today’s breach, given PROSERVE’S racing manners, is assessed as low to mid-range. He said Ms Comignaghi does ride at North Island venues, which the Adjudicative Committee may take into consideration.

Ms Comignaghi asked to start any proposed suspension immediately and in her usual honest manner, said she had no plans to travel to the North Island.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Penalty Guidelines in this case is of no help to the Adjudicative Committee in setting a fair and reasonable Penalty, and one that is meaningful. The racing calendar shows 6 North Island days and no meetings in the South Island for the next 10 days. The seventh racing day is at Oamaru and the Adjudicative Committee finds itself forced to impose a 7-day suspension to include this race day.

This Penalty has the appearance to be abnormally excessive, but it would be expected from future Adjudicative Committees and Stewards, to have regard to the full circumstances of Ms Comignaghi’s case.

CONCLUSION:

Accordingly, Class A Rider Ms Tina Comignaghi’s Licence to ride in races is suspended from the conclusion of racing today, up to and including racing on the 23 July 2023.