Ashburton RC 6 April 2022 – R5 – Chris Carmine

BACKGROUND:

Following the running of Race 5, Premier Equine Vets 2200m, 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, Ms Algar demonstrated that the Respondent struck his mount 7 times from the straight entrance to the 100-metre mark.

The Respondent did not wish to comment. He agreed with the alleged count of 7 strikes.

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 said that this was the Respondent’s second offence, having received a 5 national riding days suspension following an earlier race today (9 strikes prior to the 100-metres mark for which he received a 5 national riding days suspension). For a second breach of Rule 638(3)(g)(i) involving two additional strikes, the penalty starting point is a fine of $500, Ms Algar said, and Stewards were seeking a fine of that amount.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The NZTR Revised Penalty Guidelines (effective 1 March 2022) prescribe a starting point of a $500 fine for a second offence involving two additional strikes, as in this case. There are no relevant aggravating or mitigating factors.

CONCLUSION:

The Respondent, Jockey Chris Carmine, is fined $500.