Manawatu RC 20 December 2025 – R5 – Leah Hemi
ID: RIB62009
Animal Name:
PALMAROW
Code:
Thoroughbred
Race Date:
20/12/2025
Race Club:
Manawatu Race Club
Race Location:
Trentham - 10 Racecourse Rd, Upper Hutt, 5018
Race Number:
R5
Hearing Date:
20/12/2025
Hearing Location:
Trentham Racecourse
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Jockey Leah Hemi is fined $500
EVIDENCE:
Following the running of Race 5, the “BARRY ILLSLEY BUILDING AND JOINERY 1600”, Mr Goodwin presented an Information charging Ms Hemi, the Rider of PALMAROW, with a breach of Whip Rule 638(3)(g)(i), in that she struck her horse with the whip on 6 occasions prior to the 100 metre mark, and a further 5 strikes inside the final 100 metres.
Ms Hemi admitted the charge.
The race films illustrated that PALMAROW was well back towards the rear of the field as it entered the home straight. It commenced a strong run, wide out, and when hard ridden, it was struck with Ms Hemi’s whip 6 times well before the 100 metre mark. Thereafter, she struck it 5 further times. It finished a close 2nd.
DECISION:
As the charge was admitted, it was deemed to be proved.
SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:
Mr Goodwin advised that Ms Hemi had 2 previous breaches of this Whip Rule in the past 6 months, both in July 2025. In line with the NZTR Penalty Guide, he sought a penalty of a fine of $500.
Ms Hemi made no submissions.
REASONS FOR PENALTY:
The guide for one excessive strike before the 100 metre mark, and being a 3rd offence, is for a fine of $500. There was no good reason to depart from the Guide.
CONCLUSION:
Accordingly, Ms Hemi was fined $500.
Decision Date: 20/12/2025
Publish Date: 22/12/2025