Wellington RC 18 June 2022 – R5 – Faye Lazet

Evidence:

Following the running of Race 5, the Respondent Ms F Lazet admitted a charge alleging excessive whip use prior to the 100 metres.

Apprentice Mentor Ms Clapperton was present to assist.

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 Mr Davidson demonstrated that Ms Lazet struck her mount 6 times from the straight entrance to the 100-metre mark.

In response Ms Lazet said said she was counting her strikes but mistook the 200m red mark on the fence for the 100m mark. She realised her mistake immediately and was very annoyed at herself.

Decision:

As Ms Lazet admitted the breach the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved (Rule 915(1)(d) refers).

Submissions For Penalty:

Mr Davidson produced the Respondent’s record which indicated:

9/3/22  Otaki 6 strikes   warning

21/5/22  Wellington  7 strikes (Listed race and won race)   $400

18/5/22  Wellington  6 strikes   $500

Ms Lazet was resigned to the fact that a suspension was inevitable following her previous breach today. She advised of riding commitments through until Friday at Otaki and sought a deferment to fulfil those riding engagements.

Reasons For Penalty:

The Penalty Guide starting point for a 4th breach of this nature within a 6 month period is a suspension of 5 national days (as per updated NZTR Penalty Guide dated 1 March 2022).

Ms Lazet was charged with an identical breach today after Race 3, therefore it is unfortunate she is back facing the same charge only two races later. Ms Clapperton had advised Ms Lazet to watch out for the red mark on the inside rail at the 100 metres, which she did. The confusion occurred due to there being two red markings on the rail – one at the 200m and another at the 100 metres. Ms Clapperton said the long Trentham strait can also catch out less experienced Riders. Ms Lazet will have learned from her two breaches today and hopefully will not make the same mistake again.

There were no aggravating factors to apply and mitigation in regard to whip breaches is unusual.

As this is Ms Lazet’s 4th breach, a suspension of 5 days is imposed. Her request for a deferment is granted.

Conclusion:

Ms Lazet’s licence to ride in races is suspended for 5 days from close of racing on Friday June 24th, 2022 until close of racing on Friday July 1st, 2022.