NZ Metro TC 27 July 2025 – R9 – Ricky Alfeld

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 9, Stipendiary Steward Mr Matt Sole presented an Information alleging a breach of the Whip Regulations by Open Driver Mr Rick Alfeld.

Mr Alfeld stated he was conversant with the Rule, Charge and confirmed he admitted the breach.

Rule 869 provides that:

(2) No driver shall during any race use a whip in a manner in contravention of the Use of the Whip Regulations made by the Board.

Mr Sole played the final straight video to identify Mr Alfeld (HIT THE BEACH), who had been racing in the 1×1 position. Mr Sole pointed to Mr Alfeld strike his horse 8 times in the home straight while engaging his elbow, which he said contravened the Rule.

Mr Alfeld made no submissions.

DECISION:

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

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Sole said Mr Alfeld had a clear record with no warnings; however, this breach the Stewards contend, is in the mid to high range, hence the charge being laid.  Mr Sole said he would leave it to the Adjudicative Committee to judge the severity of the breach and find an appropriate penalty.

Mr Alfeld made no submissions, except to request a suspension over a fine.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Penalty Guidelines provide a $500 fine or a two-day suspension starting point, for a mid-range first breach of this Rule.

The Adjudicative Committee assesses this breach to be mid-range and finds a 2-day suspension to be the appropriate Penalty.

CONCLUSION:

Open Driver Mr Rick Alfeld is suspended from the close of racing today, up to and including racing on 3 August 2025.