Ashburton TC 13 November 2025 – R6 – Richard Alfeld

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 6, Stipendiary Steward Mr Shane Renault 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 and the 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 Renault played the final straight video to identify Mr Alfeld (SANS REPOS), who was finishing strongly in the centre of the track. Mr Renault pointed to Mr Alfeld strike his horse 6 times over approximately 100m 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 Renault said Mr Alfeld had a clear record and this breach the Stewards contend is mid- range.

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 assess this breach to be mid-range, as the infringing persisted for more than 50m and find 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 21 November 2025.

Meetings encompassed in this suspension are Rangiora HRC on 20 November and NZMTC on 21 November 2025.