Hawkes Bay RI 6 July 2024 – R2 – Tayla Mitchell

ID: RIB44196

Respondent(s):
Tayla Mitchell - Apprentice Jockey

Applicant:
Mark Davidson - Stipendiary Steward

Adjudicators:
Tom Castles

Persons Present:
Neil Goodwin - Stipendiary Steward, Kim Clapperton - Riding Mentor

Information Number:
A17463

Decision Type:
Race Related Charge

Charge:
Excessive Use of Whip

Rule(s):
638(3)(g)(i) - Contravention whip rule

Plea:
Admitted

Animal Name:
Cheap Sav

Code:
Thoroughbred

Race Date:
06/07/2024

Race Club:
Hawkes Bay Race Club

Race Location:
Hastings Racecourse - 200 Prospect Road, Hastings, 4122

Race Number:
R2

Hearing Date:
06/07/2024

Hearing Location:
Hastings

Outcome: Proved

Penalty: Apprentice Jockey Tayla Mitchell is suspended for 7 days

FACTS

Apprentice Jockey Tayla Mitchell admitted a breach of Rule 638(3)(g)(i), in that she struck her mount more than 5 times prior to the 100 metre mark.

EVIDENCE

The films of the incident were shown and the strikes counted. It was confirmed by all present that a total of 10 strikes were used, clearly breaching the allowable number.

Riding Mentor Kim Clapperton stated that while the Rule had been breached, Apprentice Jockey Tayla Mitchell was riding her mother’s horse and she wanted to ensure she gave it every opportunity.

Apprentice Jockey Tayla Mitchell felt the Rule was too strict and not open to leniency.

DECISION

As the charge was admitted, it was deemed proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY

Stipendiary Steward M Davidson said the number of strikes exceeded the Guidelines and a period of suspension should be imposed.

A deferment was asked for if a period of suspension was imposed.

REASONS FOR PENALTY

The Rule was clearly breached. The films confirmed that.  It was pointed out to Tayla Mitchell that the Rule is there to ensure animal welfare is paramount. The number of strikes was excessive, well outside the Guidelines and this must be reflected in the penalty. It was noted that Apprentice Jockey Tayla Mitchell has had two previous breaches of the Rule, both resulting in a fine.

CONCLUSION

A deferment was agreed to and Apprentice Jockey Tayla Mitchell was suspended from race riding from after racing on Saturday 13 July, until the completion of racing on Friday 26 July – 7 days.

Decision Date: 06/07/2024

Publish Date: 08/07/2024