Egmont RC – 17 April 2026 – R6 – Kavish Chowdhoory

BACKGROUND

Following the running of Race 6, the ‘HRS Occupational Health and Wellness Maiden 1200’, an Information was lodged alleging a breach of Rule 638(3)(g)(i). The Information read as follows:

‘Struck his mount ‘KAY’S RUEBE’ 7 times prior to the 100m’

Rule 638(3)(g)(i) provides (g) a Rider must not (i) except as provided for in (iii)(A) and (iii)(B) of this sub rule, strike a horse with a whip more than 5 times prior to the 100-metre mark (other than in a slapping motion down the shoulder with the whip hand remaining on the reins); where it shall not be a contravention of this sub rule (i) if: (iii)(B) a Rider strikes a horse seven times prior to the 100-metre mark, provided that the Rider does not strike the horse more than 3 times after the 100 – metre mark.

Mr Chowdhoory confirmed that he understood the Rule, the nature of the charge and his admission of the breach.

EVIDENCE

Using the available race film Stewards identified the incident. Entering the straight, KAY’S RUEBE was positioned toward the rear of the field and was angled to the outside fence. The Respondent is seen to strike his mount on 7 occasions between this point and the 100 metre mark whilst another 4 strikes are noted prior to the finish line. KAY’S RUEBE finished second in the race 1.5 lengths from the winner.

Mr Chowdhoory confirmed that he agreed with Steward interpretation and count. He had little else to add.

DECISION

As the Respondent admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach to be proved.

SUBMISSIONS ON PENALTY

Stewards produced the Respondent’s record as it relates to any previous breach of this Rule within the last six months. There are two noted namely:

18/10/2025 – 9 strikes – 5-day suspension

28/3/2026 –   8 strikes – 5-day suspension

Stewards referred the Adjudicative Committee to the current NZTR Penalty Guide, which provides for a starting point of a 5-day suspension – 3rd offence 2 additional strikes. In relation to penalty, Mr Chowdhoory asked that where a suspension was imposed same be deferred until completion of racing on 26th April 2026.

REASONS FOR PENALTY

The breach is identified by film. After considering same, along with respective submissions, the Adjudicative Committee determined that a 5-day suspension of Licence was the appropriate penalty. The request for deferment was granted.

CONCLUSION

The Respondents Licence to ride in races is suspended for 5 National Riding Days from the conclusion of racing on 26th April 2026 up to and including 2nd May 2026.