Riccarton Park – Canterbury JC 2 August 2025 – R10 – Donovan Cooper
ID: RIB57451
Animal Name:
VINO VALENTINO
Code:
Thoroughbred
Race Date:
02/08/2025
Race Club:
Canterbury Jockey Club
Race Location:
Riccarton Park - 165 Racecourse Road, Christchurch,
Race Number:
R10
Hearing Date:
02/08/2025
Hearing Location:
Riccarton Park
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Apprentice Rider Donovan Cooper is suspended for 8 days
EVIDENCE:
Following the running of Race 10, Chief Stipendiary Steward Mr John Oatham presented an Information alleging a breach of Rule 638(3)(g)(i) by Apprentice Rider Mr Donovan Cooper.
Mr Cooper stated he was conversant with the Rule and the Charge, and confirmed he admitted the breach. Mr Cooper was supported by Apprentice Mentor Mr Jason Laking.
Mr Oatham played the race video to identify Mr Cooper (VINO VALENTINO) racing in the middle of the track, as the field entered the home straight. He counted 9 strikes prior to the 100m.
Mr Cooper and Mr Laking said they agreed with the count and had nothing to add.
DECISION:
The Respondent having admitted the breach, the charge was deemed to be proved.
SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:
Mr Oatham outlined Mr Cooper’s 3 previous breaches of the Rule.
12 April 2025 – 8 strikes – $500
21 April 2025 – 8 strikes – 5-day suspension
21 April 2025 – 8 strikes – 6-day suspension
Mr Oatham said this being a 4th breach, an uplift is required from Mr Cooper’s latest period of suspension.
Mr Cooper made no submissions on Penalty, but asked for deferment until after racing on Saturday 9 August.
REASONS FOR PENALTY:
The Penalty Guidelines provide a 5+ day suspension for a 4th breach with 4 or more strikes.
Mr Cooper’s record is now poor, and he will need to be very careful not to breach this Rule in the coming months.
The Adjudicative Committee, after considering all factors, finds an 8-day suspension appropriate in this case.
Deferment is granted for Mr Cooper.
CONCLUSION:
Apprentice Rider Mr Donovan’s Licence to ride in races is suspended from the conclusion of racing on Saturday 9 August, up to and including racing on 21 August 2025.
Decision Date: 02/08/2025
Publish Date: 05/08/2025