Wairarapa RC 9 November 2025 – R2 – Erin Leighton

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 2, the “LA STUD 2YO 1000M”, Mr Goodwin presented an Information charging Ms Leighton with careless riding in breach of Rule 638(1)(d). Ms Leighton admitted the charge.

The race films depicted that Ms Leighton’s mount “TIFOSI” was 3 back on the inside as the field turned into the straight at the 350 metre mark. She sought to commence a run by shifting out when not sufficiently clear of “SETHSATIONAL”, ridden by Mr Mudhoo. Consequently, that horse was directed outwards and had to be checked to avoid a heel’s contact. “TIFOSI” finished 3rd and “SETHSATIONAL” finished 4th.

Ms Leighton’s submission to the Adjudicative Committee was that she “never intended” to offend, that Mr Mudhoo’s mount was racing “greenly and overreacted” and no contact occurred. Mr Mudhoo, when called by the Informant, said he felt contact was made and in any event, he had to firmly check his mount as a result of Ms Leighton’s mount being insufficiently clear.

DECISION:

As the charge was admitted, it was deemed to be proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Goodwin advised that Ms Leighton resumed riding in August 2025, after a 3 year break and since then, has had 22 rides without any offences. His opinion was that this breach was in the mid range of carelessness and sought a term of suspension.

Ms Leighton advised that she has some upcoming riding commitments, which required any suspension to be deferred.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

From a starting point of 6 national riding days, for careless riding between low and mid level, the Adjudicative Committee affords Ms Leighton a mitigation of 1 day for her record.

CONCLUSION:

Accordingly, her Licence to ride is suspended for 5 national riding days, to commence after the conclusion of racing on 16 November 2025 and to end after the conclusion of racing on 26 November 2025.