Ashburton RC 6 April 2022 – R2 – Chris Carmine

BACKGROUND:

Following the running of Race 2, Agraforum 0800 488 118 Maiden, the Respondent Class A Jockey, Chris Carmine, 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).

EVIDENCE:

Using the available video replays, Stipendiary Steward Ms Algar demonstrated that the Respondent struck his mount, JAXX BE NIMBLE, 9 times from the straight entrance to the 100-metre mark.

Mr Carmine said that he agreed with the alleged count of 9 strikes. He had only just resumed race riding after a long time away and he was still getting used to the new whip regime, he said.

DECISION:

As the Respondent, Mr Carmine, admitted the breach the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved (Rule 915(1)(d) refers).

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Ms Algar confirmed that Mr Carmine has only just resumed race riding so his record is clear. She referred to the NZTR Revised Penalty Guidelines (effective 1 March 2022) and to the starting point in those Guidelines for a first offence involving 4 or more additional strikes – a 5 national riding days suspension.

Mr Carmine said that he has three declared rides at the Riccarton meeting on 9 April but did not require a suspension beyond that date.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Adjudicative Committee noted that the  Respondent has had, before today’s meeting, only 13 rides this season. Prior to this season, he last rode in the 2010/2011 season. However, he is expected be aware of the current Whip Rule and Penalty Guidelines.

The Penalty Guidelines prescribe a 5 national riding days suspension for a breach of 4 or more additional strikes, as in this case. There are no relevant aggravating or mitigating factors warranting a departure from that starting point.

CONCLUSION:

The Respondent, Jockey Chris Carmine, is suspended for 5 national riding days from after close of racing on 9 April 2022 until after close of racing on 18 April 2022.