Masterton RC 28 May 2022 – R7 – Kate Hercock

ID: RIB9270

Respondent(s):
Kate Hercock - Jockey

Applicant:
Ms V Algar, Stipendiary Steward,

Adjudicators:
Mr N McCutcheon

Persons Present:
Ms Algar, Ms Hercock, Mr K Coppins Stipendiary Steward

Information Number:
A16812

Decision Type:
Race Related Charge

Charge:
Struck mount in two consecutive strides

Rule(s):
638(3)(g)(ii) - Contravention whip rule

Plea:
Admitted

Animal Name:
SANIBEL

Code:
Thoroughbred

Race Date:
28/05/2022

Race Club:
Wellington Racing Club

Race Location:
Trentham - 10 Racecourse Rd, Upper Hutt, 5018

Hearing Date:
28/05/2022

Hearing Location:
Trentham Racecourse

Outcome: Proved

Penalty: Jockey, Kate Hercock fined $250

FACTS

Ms Hercock admitted a breach of Rule 638(3)(g)(ii) in that she struck her mount in two consecutive strides over the concluding stages.

Her mount  “SANIBEL” went on to win the Race by the barest of margin.

Ms Hercock confirmed that she understood the Rule, Charge and confirmed to the Committee that she admitted the breach.

Film replays were shown which confirmed that two consecutive strikes had been applied by Ms Hercock close to the finish of the Race.

Ms Hercock said that it was instinct and that when she realized what she had done she stopped and thought what a d**k.

DECISION

As the breach was admitted, it was found proved.

PENALTY SUBMISSIONS

Ms Algar said that under the particular section of the Rule Ms Hercock was warned on 18 December 2021 and, on 26 December 2021 was fined $500 for a breach in a Listed Race.  Ms Algar added that the aggravating factor on this occasion was that Ms Hercock’s mount went on to win the race narrowly.

Ms Hercock responded by saying, it is what it is.

REASONS FOR PENALTY

The Penalty Guide starting point is for a fine of $300.  The Adjudicative Committee was of the view that this figure was inadequate on this occasion.  This was due to Ms Hercock’s mount winning the Race by the slimmest of margin.  Also, it could be successfully argued that “SANIBEL” won the Race unfairly.

Ms Hercock’s recent record was also taken into consideration.

It was determined that an increase of 100% on the starting point was a condign sanction.

CONCLUSION

Ms Hercock was fined $600.

Decision Date: 28/05/2022

Publish Date: 01/06/2022