Auckland TR 24 January 2026 – R4 – Angela Jones

Background:

Following the running of Race 4, the Restricted Listed ‘TAB Karaka Millions 2yo’, an Information was lodged alleging a breach of Rule 638(3)(f)(ii). Details are as follows:

‘in that she used her whip using an action that raised the Rider’s arm above shoulder height in the final straight’.

Rule 638(3)(f)(ii) provides:

(f) A Rider must not use his or her whip:

(ii) using an action that raises the Rider’s arm above shoulder height.

The Respondent confirmed to the Adjudicative Committee that she admitted the breach. She also confirmed that she remained aware of her obligations under the NZTR Rules of Racing.

Evidence:

Using available film, Stewards identified the incident. In the straight between the 200 and 100m mark, Ms Jones is seen to strike her mount VANZADEE on 3 occasions, with an action commencing from above shoulder height. Ms Jones agreed with Steward interpretation.

Decision:

As the Respondent admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee found the breach proved.

Submissions for Penalty:

Stewards referred the Adjudicative Committee to the current Penalty Guides, where same provides for a $250 fine as a starting point for a breach of this type. Stewards suggested that given circumstance ie race status etc, the Adjudicative Committee should consider an uplift. The Respondent did not provide input.

Reasons for Penalty:

Available film clearly identified the breach. The current Penalty Guide provides for a $250 fine for a breach of this particular Rule. VANZADEE finished 8th in the event, earning a stake of $13,500, with the Respondent’s share thus being $675. In setting penalty, it was important to note that Ms Jones received a fine of $400 for a breach of this Rule in the previous Race. At the time of this breach, the Respondent had not had her previous offence ‘heard’, but had ridden after admitting same. Disappointingly, this offence was almost identical in respect of the location and number of strikes.  Reflecting upon same, along with race status etc, an uplift in penalty was deemed appropriate. A fine of $500 was imposed.

Conclusion:

Ms Jones is fined a sum of $500.