Otaki-Maori RC 8 February 2026 – R6 – Alan Lai

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 6, Stipendiary Steward Ms L Selvakumaran presented an Information charging Apprentice Jockey Mr A Lai with a breach of Rule 638(3)(g)(i) in that he used his whip excessively on his mount, THE BIG PICTURE, in the home straight.

Mr Lai, assisted by Ms Clapperton, admitted the charge.

The race film depicted THE BIG PICTURE being struck with the whip by Mr Lai 9 times after entering the final straight and before the 100 metres mark.  This was clearly excessive.

The horse finished second.

DECISION:

As the charge was admitted, it was deemed proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

The Informant advised that Mr Lai had had only 6 previous rides in New Zealand and had no previous breaches of this Rule.

Mr Lai and Ms Clapperton made no submissions.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

For a first offence under this Rule, the NZTR “Guide” refers to a 5 days’ suspension.  There are no circumstances (aggravating or mitigating) that require any distinction being made.

CONCLUSION:

Accordingly, Mr Lai’s License to ride is suspended for 5 National Riding Days, to commence at the end of racing today, 8 February 2026, and to end at the conclusion of racing on 18 February 2026.