Waikato BOP H 26 January 2026 – R4 – Kate Coppins

Summary of Facts:

Following the running of Race 4, the Respondent K Coppins (Junior Driver) admitted a breach of Whip Rule 869(2).  The particulars of the charge are that she used her whip in a continuous manner in the home run.

The Respondent endorsed the Information ‘I do admit the breach of the rule’ and confirmed she understood the Rule and the nature of the charge.  The Respondent was supported by Mr Andrew Neal.

Rule 869(2) provides that:

No driver shall, during any race, use a whip in a manner in contravention of the Whip and Rein Regulations made by the Board.

Stewards Evidence

Using available footage, Stipendiary Steward Mr S Mulcay showed the breach and stated Ms Coppins is the widest horse and in the straight to the run home, commences to drive around, but in doing so, she uses the whip in a continuous manner on approximately 10 occasions, before altering the manner in which she is using the whip.

In response, the Respondent had nothing to add.  Mr Andrew Neal asked where specifically was the breach.  Mr S Mulcay advised, at the final turn towards the finish.  Mr Andrew Neal asked if there was any further in the last 100m of the race to the winning post.  Mr S Mulcay confirmed the Respondent was compliant for the remainder of the race.

Decision:

The charge is admitted and therefore proved.

Submissions for Penalty:

Mr S Mulcay advised the Respondent, Ms K Coppins, had a clear record; however, does have a warning within the turnaround period, hence the charge being preferred, but that the Stewards assessed the breach to be low-level and that it be dealt with by way of a fine.  The Penalty Guide provides a starting point of $300.  He did note that Ms K Coppins is a Junior Driver and that the amount of the fine has been varied on occasion in the past for Junior Drivers. Stewards have no opposition to a monetary fine being imposed.

Ms K Coppins responded that, as it was her first offence and she is a Junior Driver, suggested the fine could be reduced to $250.

Mr Andrew Neal (support person for the Driver) spoke to the fact that Ms K Coppins had a clear record and was an up-and-coming Junior Driver, and on this occasion, is a first offence, and asked for consideration of a 50% reduction of any fine given.

Reasons for Penalty:

The Penalty Guide provides a starting point of:

1st Breach –  Low-level Penalty Range is a $300 fine or a 2-day suspension

After consideration of the evidence from all parties concerned and viewing the race films, the Adjudicative Committee assessed the breach as low-level and adopted a starting point of a $300 fine.

Having considered all factors, Ms K Coppins is a Junior Driver and has a clear record. The Adjudicative Committee determined that an appropriate penalty of $250 is given.

Conclusion:

The Respondent is fined $250.