Rangitikei RC 18 May 2024 – R6 – Toni Davies

Background:

Following the running of Race 6, the ‘John Turkington Forestry 2200’, an Information was lodged alleging a breach of Rule 638(1)(d). Details are as follow:

‘in that she allowed her mount Greystone to shift inwards near the 1900m when not clear of Divine Spirit (J Chung) which was checked’

Rule 638(1)(d) provides:

‘(1) A Rider shall not ride a horse in a manner which the Adjudicative Committee considers to be: (d) careless’

The Respondent (assisted by Ms Clapperton) confirmed to the Adjudicative Committee that she understood the Rule and admitted the breach.

Evidence:

Using available film, Stewards identified the incident and horses involved. Soon after leaving the gates and heading to the post and first turn, GREYSTONE was positioned some 6-7 horse widths from the fence with DIVINE SPIRIT (Mr J Chung) to it’s inside. The Respondent looked to push forward and cross. When doing so, she was insufficiently clear of DIVINE SPIRIT, who was checked. When asked, Ms Davies whilst not excusing her actions, commented that the check may have been minimized if Mr Chung, upon seeing her looking to cross, had looked to ease his mount.

Decision:

As the Respondent acknowledged the breach, the Adjudicative Committee found the breach proved.

Submissions for Penalty:

Stewards outlined the Respondent’s record as it related to any breach of this particular Rule within the last twelve months. There were three noted namely:

7/10/2023       Egmont – low range – 4 days suspension

12/10/2023     Waverley – fall – 4 week suspension

6/3/2024         Otaki – low range – 4 days suspension

Stewards contended that the breach was low range and referred the Adjudicative Committee to the current NZTR Penalty Guide. Ms Davies sought deferment of any suspension to enable her to satisfy riding commitments at Taupo on 22/5/2024.

Reasons for Penalty:

The Adjudicative Committee was satisfied that the breach represented a low range careless ride. Film identified that the Respondent was insufficiently clear when crossing, with this action causing the check to DIVINE SPIRIT. Whilst acknowledging Ms Davies’ comment (as endorsed by Ms Clapperton) in respect of the actions of Mr Chung, this is not a mitigating factor in determining penalty. The current NZTR Penalty Guide provides for a starting point of a 5 day suspension – low range careless. This was deemed an appropriate sanction. The Respondent’s request for deferment was granted.

Conclusion:

Ms Davies’ Licence to ride in races is suspended for 5 National Riding Days, from the close of racing on 22 May 2024, up to and including 30 May 2024.