Ashburton RC 3 November 2024 – R5 – Sanu Toolooa

SUMMARY OF FACTS:

Following the running of Race 5, Sanu Toolooa, admitted a charge of excessive whip use on his mount, DECLARE, prior to the 100 metres, in that he struck his mount 9 times.

Rule 638(3)(g)(i) provides that “in a Flat Race, a Rider must not 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”. 

SUBMISSIONS:

Stipendiary Steward Mark Davidson, showed Mr Toolooa in the run home, strike his mount 9 times.

Mr Toolooa accepted there were nine clear strikes.

DECISION:

As the breach was admitted, the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Davidson said that Mr Toolooa had a clear record under this Rule, within twelve months.

Mr Davidson submitted that the appropriate starting point was a five National Riding Day suspension, in reference to the Penalty Guide.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Adjudicative Committee found that a starting point of five days was appropriate, as per the Penalty Guide. There were no aggravating factors. Accordingly, the appropriate penalty is a five day suspension.

CONCLUSION:

Mr Toolooa is suspended for five days.

He is suspended for five days, up to and including 10 November 2024.