Riccarton Park – Canterbury JC 15 November 2023 – R6 – Danika Wilson

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 6, Stipendiary Steward Mr Mark Davidson presented an Information alleging a breach of Rule 638(1)(d) by Apprentice Rider Ms Danika Wilson.

Ms Wilson stated she understood the Rule, the charge and confirmed her admission of the breach. Ms Wilson was assisted by Apprentice Mentor Mr Jason Laking.

Mr Davidson showed all available videos to identify Ms Wilson (MR INTELLIGENCE) racing 4 wide approximately 200m after the start of the 2000m race. He pointed to Ms Wilson shift inwards when not sufficiently clear of RIVIERA ROCK (B May), who was checked.

Mr Davidson said Ms Wilson was only 3/4 of a length clear when beginning her shift.

Ms Wilson made no submissions, but Mr Laking said the 2000m start is difficult for inexperienced Riders and this incident was just a lack of judgement.

DECISION:

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

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Davidson stated Ms Wilson was starting a suspension for a low range breach of this Rule after racing on Saturday 18 November. He said this breach was low range and he would leave it to the Adjudicative Committee to find an appropriate penalty.

Ms Wilson and Mr Laking made no submissions on penalty.

REASONS FOR DECISION:

The Penalty Guidelines provide a 5-day suspension starting point for a low-level breach of this Rule.

The Adjudicative Committee finds this breach to be low range and, in this instance, considers Ms Wilson’s record to be neutral. Credit is given for her admission and accordingly, her Licence is suspended for 4 days.

Deferment is granted and Ms Wilson was advised that any future breaches of this Rule, will be an aggravating factor for Adjudicative Committees to consider.

CONCLUSION:

Apprentice Rider Ms Danika Wilson’s Licence to ride in races is suspended from the conclusion of racing on 24 November 2023, up to and including racing on 1 December 2023.