Wellington RC 29 January 2022 – R4 – Lemmy Douglas

Following the running of Race 4, the Respondent Mr L Douglas admitted a charge alleging excessive whip use prior to the 100 metres.

Rule 638(3)(g)(i) provides that in a Flat Race a Rider must not:

(i) 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); or

Using the available race films Stipendiary Steward Mr Oatham demonstrated where Mr Douglas struck his mount 6 times prior to the 100-metre mark.  He was the closest runner to the rail and the 6 strikes were well before the 100m mark.

In response, Mr Douglas said he agreed with the number of strikes as counted by the Stewards.

Decision

As Mr Douglas admitted the breach the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved.

Submissions For Penalty

Mr Oatham produced Mr Douglas’ record which showed two previous breaches both from the same day (20/12/22) at Pukekohe. The first was for 7 strikes which incurred a $250 fine and the second was for 6 strikes where he received a $500 fine.

Mr Douglas began an Apprenticeship in November following a career as a Jumps Jockey. He has had 101 rides to date and today was unplaced in the race.

Neither Mr Douglas nor Ms Clapperton had anything to say on penalty except that any suspension could begin immediately.

Reasons For Penalty

The Penalty Guide starting point for a breach of this nature is set out below.

For breaches of the Whip Rule prior to the 100m mark:

1st offence starting point Greater of $250 fine or 50% of jockey share of stake.

2nd offence starting point Greater of $500 fine or 50% of jockey share of stake.

3rd offence starting point 5 national day suspension plus 50% of jockey share of stake.

4th offence starting point 5+ national day suspension plus 50% of jockey share of stake.

After considering the film evidence, and the submissions the Adjudicative Committee determined there were no compelling reasons to depart from the starting point set out in the Penalty Guide.

As this is the Respondent’s 3rd breach a suspension of 5 days is imposed.

Conclusion

Mr Douglas’ licence to ride in races is suspended for 5 days from close of racing on Sunday January 30th until close of racing on Wednesday February 9th 2022.