Wellington RC 14 December 2025 – R1 – Floor Moerman

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 1, the “GRANT PLUMBING MAIDEN SPRINT”, Mr Goodwin presented an Information charging Ms F Moerman with careless riding, in breach of Rule 638(1)(d).

It was alleged that Ms Moerman, riding CRIXUS, permitted her mount to shift inwards when not sufficiently clear of TOMAHAWK (ridden by Mr G Rooke), which was checked near the 250 metres mark.

Mr Myers advised that Ms Moerman did not admit the breach of the Careless Riding Rule 638(1)(d).

Evidence was given in the form of the race film, Mr Rooke – Rider of TOMAHAWK, Mr Goodwin, Ms Moerman and Mr Myers.  The Adjudicative Committee found that approaching the 250 metre mark, CRIXUS was being vigorously ridden by Ms Moerman when outside and ahead of TOMAHAWK.  A gap opened inside CRIXUS, into which Mr Rooke took advantage.  CRIXUS was being struck by Ms Moerman’s whip in her right hand, without CRIXUS moving inwards.  But it abruptly moved inwards when ridden hands and heels and that movement was not corrected by Ms Moerman, causing TOMAHAWK to suffer a check.  Ms Moerman said her horse “overreacted and shied from an outside horse”.  Mr Myers said he had told the Rider to “watch out as the horse can duck away quickly”.

REASONS FOR DECISION:

The Adjudicative Committee finds that although CRIXUS did shift in quickly, Ms Moerman did not do enough to straighten it in time.  “Carelessness” involves a failure to exercise a reasonable and sufficient measure or step that is required in the circumstances.  It is to ride without due care and attention.  The failure in this case was not immediately straightening the inward movement.

DECISION:

The charge of careless riding was proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

The Informant advised that this carelessness was at the low end.  Ms Moerman has had 2 breaches in 279 rides over the past 12 months.  She is content that any suspension commence at the end of today’s racing.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

From the recommended starting point of 5 days’ suspension, the Adjudicative Committee is satisfied that some allowance should be given for the minor nature of the carelessness and Ms Moerman’s good record; a discount of 1 day is afforded.

CONCLUSION:

Accordingly, Ms Moerman’s Licence to ride is suspended for 4 National Riding Days, to commence at the conclusion of racing on 14 December 2025 and to end at the conclusion of racing on 21 December 2025.