Non Raceday Inquiry – Written Decision dated 15 December 2025 – Akshay Balloo
ID: RIB61691
Animal Name:
FREEDOM REINS
Code:
Thoroughbred
Race Date:
05/12/2025
Race Club:
Canterbury Jockey Club
Race Location:
Riccarton Park - 165 Racecourse Road, Christchurch,
Race Number:
R7
Hearing Date:
13/12/2025
Hearing Location:
Ascot Park Raceway, Invercargill
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Class A Rider Akshay Balloo is suspended for 5 days
Mrs Fisher alleged that Mr Balloo, being the Rider of the horse FREEDOM REINS in Race 7 at the North Canterbury Jockey Club meeting on 5 December 2025, struck his mount with the whip on nine occasions prior to the 100-metre mark. This is an alleged breach of r 638(3)(g)(i) of the NZ Thoroughbred Rules of Racing.
Mrs Fisher demonstrated on the videos that the Respondent was racing in the centre of the track as the field was running home. He was making good ground, and he used his whip 9 times prior to the 100 metres. There were 2 further strikes after the 100 metres.
Mr Balloo agreed with the Stewards’ count. He commented that the horse was making ground every time he used the stick and he had got carried away. He had not been counting the strikes.
Decision
As Mr Balloo has admitted the breach, it is found to be proved.
Submissions as to Penalty
Mrs Fisher produced the Respondent’s record, which evidenced that Mr Balloo’s record was clear under this Rule for the last 6 months.
Mr Balloo confirmed his record and stated he wished the suspension to start immediately.
Reasons for Penalty
The Penalty Guide provides a 5-day starting point for a 1st breach where the count is 9 strikes. The appropriate penalty, having regard to record and number of strikes, is 5 days.
Penalty
Mr Balloo is suspended from the end of racing today, up to and including 21 December 2025. This is 5 National Riding Days.
Decision Date: 13/12/2025
Publish Date: 17/12/2025