Central Otago RC 29 November 2024 – R2 – Savish Khetoo

Background:

Following the running of Race 2, Class B Rider Savish Khetoo admitted a breach of Rule 638(1)(d) in that, as the Jockey of MORE SASS in the race, he rode carelessly when allowing his mount to shift out passing the 250 metre mark, crowding and checking CHICAGO DREAM (C Campbell) and hampering MORRIE (T Comignaghi).

Rule 638(1)(d) provides:

A Rider shall not ride a horse in a manner which the Adjudicative Committee considers to be careless.

At the start of the hearing, Mr Khetoo confirmed his admission of the breach and that he understood the Rule and the nature of the charge.

Evidence:

Using the available race videos, Stipendiary Steward Mark Davidson identified Mr Khetoo (MORE SASS) positioned in the middle of the track in 5th as the field approached the 250 metre mark. Close to heels to his outside was Mr Campbell (CHICAGO DREAM) and further out was Ms Comignaghi (MORRIE). Under strong riding from Mr Khetoo, MORE SASS shifted wider on the track, crowding CHICAGO DREAM and causing Mr Campbell to check his horse. The shift outwards by Mr Khetoo also forced MORRIE to move wider.

Mr Khetoo said he should have taken the time to straighten MORE SASS when she ran out. Mr Laking, who attended the hearing in support of the Respondent, said Mr Khetoo had misjudged the situation.

Decision:

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

Submissions for Penalty:

Mr Khetoo had only recently returned to race riding after a lengthy break, Ms Haley said, and had only had 8 or 9 race rides since resuming his career. She advised that his record under this Rule is clear. Stewards considered the breach to be low range. Ms Haley said CHICAGO DREAM and MORRIE had lost some ground as a result of the interference, but both were nonetheless well beaten.

Mr Laking reiterated that Mr Khetoo had misjudged his ride on this occasion and that, after being out of the saddle for some months, it can take time “to get back into the groove of riding.” Mr Laking said the Respondent, in these circumstances, was probably trying a bit too hard.

Mr Khetoo requested a deferment of any possible suspension, to allow him to ride at the Cromwell meeting on 1 December 2024. He had nothing else to add on the matter of penalty.

Reasons for Penalty:

The Adjudicative Committee assesses the level of carelessness by the Respondent to be low range. Mr Khetoo is an Apprentice Jockey who has made a misjudgement. The RIB Thoroughbred Racing Penalty Guide suggests a starting point for a breach at this level is a 5 day suspension. Mr Khetoo has a clear record under the Rule, though it is noted that he has had less than 10 rides since his return to riding from an extended break. His clear record and admission of the breach are mitigating factors that warrant a 1 day reduction in the period of suspension. There are no aggravating factors.

Conclusion:

The Respondent’s request for a deferment is granted. Class B Rider Savish Khetoo is suspended from riding in races from the conclusion of racing on 1 December 2024, up to and including racing on 7 December 2024, this being 4 national riding days.