Oamaru HRC 6 November 2025 – R1 (heard 13 November 2025 at Oamaru) – Richard Alfeld

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 1, at the Oamaru HRC Meeting on 6 November 2025, Stipendiary Steward Mr Matt Sole presented an Information alleging a breach of Rule 869(3)(b) by Driver Mr Ricky Alfeld.

The hearing was opened and adjourned and heard at the Ashburton TC Meeting on 13 November 2025.

Mr Alfeld stated he understood the Rule and the Charge and confirmed his admittance of the breach.

Stipendiary Steward Mr Renault, acting as the Applicant, played the video of the incident and identified Mr Alfeld racing 3 back on the pylons near the 500m. Mr Renault played an enhanced video in slow motion, to show Mr Alfeld’s horse SANS REPOS, hit the offside wheel of LAMARLI, deflating it, with the tyre coming off the rim immediately.

Mr Alfeld had nothing to add.

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 under the Rule. He said LAMARLI was giving ground quickly, and he reminded the Adjudicative Committee that Mr Alfeld would be serving a suspension incurred today at Ashburton, encompassing 20 and 21 November 2025.

Mr Alfeld said the last time he hit a wheel in a race, it was Jack Smolenski’s, who gave him a right dressing down, which he said was a long time ago. He said he would prefer a suspension, rather than a fine.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Penalty Guidelines provide a $300 fine or a 2-day suspension for a first offence. There are no factors to consider here to depart from the Guidelines on this occasion.

CONCLUSION:

Driver Richard Alfeld is suspended for 2 days, from 23 November to 27 November 2025 inclusive.