Auckland TR 19 November 2022 – R4 – Trudy Thornton
ID: RIB13078
Animal Name:
EL BANDOLERO
Code:
Thoroughbred
Race Date:
19/11/2022
Race Club:
Auckland Thoroughbred Racing
Race Location:
Pukekohe Park - 222/250 Manukau Road, Pukekohe Hill, Pukekohe, 2120
Race Number:
R4
Hearing Date:
19/11/2022
Hearing Location:
Pukekohe RC
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Jockey Trudy Thornton is fined $250
Evidence:
Following the running of Race 4, Information A15639 was lodged alleging the Respondent, Class A Rider Ms T Thornton, struck her mount, EL BANDOLERO, six times prior to the 100-metre mark.
Ms Thornton confirmed to the Adjudicative Committee that she admitted the breach.
Rule 638(3)(g)(i) provides that 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)”
Using available film, Stipendiary Steward Mr Davidson demonstrated that EL BANDOLERO was racing wide on the track in the home straight. He pointed out that from the straight entrance to the 100-metre mark, Ms Thornton struck her mount six times.
Ms Thornton said that she agreed with the number of strikes and had nothing further to add.
Decision:
As the Respondent admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved.
Submissions for Penalty:
Mr Oatham presented the Respondent’s record which indicated one previous breaches of this Rule within the last 6 months, namely on 28 May 2022. He noted that although this previous breach is due to reset in 10 days, for the purpose of penalty, the current breach constitutes her second breach. He said that Guidelines provide for a $250 fine. A penalty in line with current Guidelines was recommended.
Ms Thornton offered no submissions as to the penalty.
Reasons for Penalty:
Current Penalty Guidelines provide for a fine of $250 for a second breach in circumstances of one additional strike. There are no aggravating factors to consider. On that basis the Adjudicative Committee found no reason to depart from this Guideline.
Conclusion:
The Respondent Ms Thornton is fined $250.
Decision Date: 19/11/2022
Publish Date: 21/11/2022