Otago RC 1 March 2025 – R6 – Ruvanesh Muniandy

Mr Davidson alleged that Mr Muniandy (THE GOOD SHEPHERD) shifted ground inwards in Race 6, when not sufficiently clear of TIKKI (T Comignaghi), which was crowded and checked passing the 950 metres.

Mr Oatham demonstrated on the videos that as the field approached the bend, Mr Muniandy shifted in when not clear of TIKKI and checked that horse. He said that had Mr Muniandy rolled forward a little more before moving, the shift would have been okay, but Mr Muniandy had put the brakes on at the same time as he shifted ground.

Mr S Muniandy spoke on behalf of Mr Muniandy. He said Mr Campbell had come in before Mr Muniandy had shifted, and Ms Comignaghi had already had to take hold. Mr Muniandy had shifted on the point of the corner after Mr Campbell had made it awkward for Ms Comignaghi. He agreed with Mr Oatham that Mr Muniandy had put the brakes on at the same time as he shifted ground. He added that THE GOOD SHEPHERD was an awkward horse to ride.

Decision

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

Submissions as to Penalty

Mr Davidson produced the Respondent’s record, which he described as not great. Mr Muniandy has had 6 breaches of this Rule in the past 12 months, although 2 are about to drop off his record. Mr Davidson described the breach as mid to low end.

Mr S Muniandy stated he accepted Mr Davidson’s submissions. He emphasised that Mr Muniandy had admitted the breach. Mr Muniandy said he wished the suspension to start immediately.

Reasons for Penalty

Mr Muniandy has shifted ground inwards when not clear of Ms Comignaghi, who has had to check her mount and was crowded.

It is a mid to low range breach and from a 6-day starting point, there is a one-day increase for record and a one-day reduction for admission of the breach.

Conclusion

Mr Muniandy is suspended from the end of racing today, 1 March, up to and including Sunday 9 March 2025. This is 6 national riding days.