Auckland TR – 11 January 2026 – R8 – Darren Danis
ID: RIB62717
Animal Name:
EL ARISH
Code:
Thoroughbred
Race Date:
11/01/2026
Race Club:
Auckland Thoroughbred Racing
Race Location:
Ellerslie Racecourse - 100 Ascot Ave, Ellerslie, Auckland, 1050
Race Number:
R8
Hearing Date:
11/01/2026
Hearing Location:
Ellerslie - Auckland TR
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Mr Danis fined $300
Evidence
Following the running of Race 8, the Respondent Class A Rider Mr D Danis admitted a charge alleging he struck his mount EL ARISH, forward of his saddle, with the whip held in a forehand position near the 25 metres.
Rule 638(3)(f)(xi) provides that in a Flat Race a Rider must not apply his or her whip:
forward of the Rider’s saddle whilst the whip is held in the forehand position.
Using the available race films, Stipendiary Steward Mr Stewart identified EL ARISH ridden by Mr Danis. He said that nearing the 25-metre mark Mr Danis struck his mount forward of the saddle, whilst his whip was held in the forehand position. There was only one strike applied.
In response, Mr Danis said that he accepted the steward’s interpretation of the breach and had nothing further to add.
Decision
As Mr Danis admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved.
Submissions for Penalty
Mr Dooley advised that Mr Danis has a clear record under the Rule. He said the starting point penalty is a $300 fine.
Mr Danis had nothing further to add concerning penalty.
Reasons for Penalty
The Penalty Guide starting point for a breach of this nature is a $300 fine. Mr Danis freely admitted the breach and there are no aggravating factors to consider.
Conclusion
Accordingly, a $300 fine is imposed.
Decision Date: 11/01/2026
Publish Date: 12/01/2026