Auckland TR 20 September 2025 – R8 – Vinnie Colgan

EVIDENCE:

This charge arises from the running of Race 5, the Group 3 AL BASTI EQUIWORLD DUBAI SUNLINE VASE. Senior Stipendiary Steward Mr B Jones filed an Information pursuant to Rule 638(3)(g)(i) alleging a breach of the Whip Rule by Class A Jockey Mr Vinnie Colgan, namely that he:

“Struck his mount LOLLAPALOOZA seven times prior to the 100 metres”.

Mr Colgan stated that he understood the Rule; the nature of the charge and confirmed that he admitted the breach.

Chief Stipendiary Steward Mr J Oatham showed the relevant race films and demonstrated that Mr Colgan struck his mount (LOLLAPALOOZA) seven times from the straight entrance to the 100m mark. He pointed out that LOLLAPALOOZA finished in second place.

Mr Jones further explained that between the 100-metre mark and the finish line, Mr Colgan struck his mount an additional seven times. He clarified that, according to the Rule (as updated in June 2023), a Rider who has already struck their horse seven times before reaching the 100 metres, is only permitted to strike their horse up to three more times after that point. In this case, the exception provided in the Rule does not apply, because Mr Colgan exceeded the allowed number of strikes after the 100-metre mark.

Mr Colgan agreed with the count and had nothing further to add.

DECISION:

Having admitted the breach, the charge was deemed to be proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Jones said that this is Mr Colgan’s third breach of the Rule within the 6-month reset period. He said that for a third breach, the Penalty Guideline establishes a starting point of a 5 plus day suspension and due to the breach having occurred in a Black Type Race (Group 3), a fine equal to 50% of Mr Colgan’s share of his stake money earned.

Mr Colgan’s share of the stake money for finishing second was $1,387.50 and 50% equates to $693.75.

Mr Colgan made no submissions as to penalty. He sought to defer any proposed suspension until after racing on 27 September 2025.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Penalty Guidelines provide for a 5 plus day suspension and a fine equal to 50% of stake money earned. The status of this race is factored into the fine recommended in the Penalty Guide, therefore no further uplift is required.

Accordingly, Mr Colgan is suspended 5 days and fined $700 (rounded up from the $693.75 stakes earned).

CONCLUSION:

Mr Colgan’s License to ride in races is suspended for 5 days, commencing after racing on 27 September 2025 and concluding after racing on 5 October 2025.  In addition, a fine of $700 is imposed.