Auckland TR 22 March 2023 – R10 – Hamish McNeill

Evidence:

Following the running of Race 10, the Cambridge Stud 1600, Information No. A16240 was lodged alleging the Respondent, Apprentice Rider Mr H McNeill, struck his mount, ABU DHABI, six times prior to the 100-metre mark.

Mr McNeill confirmed to the Adjudicative Committee that he admitted the breach. He was assisted at the hearing by Mr N Harris (Rider Mentor).

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 Mrs Selvakumaran demonstrated that ABU DHABI was at the rear of the field approaching the home turn and mounted a solid run wide out on the track.  She pointed out that from the straight entrance to the 100-metre mark, Mr McNeill struck his mount six times.

Mr McNeill agreed with the number of strikes and added that he “got caught out due to the length of the home straight”.

Decision:

As the Respondent admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved.

Submissions for Penalty:

Mrs Selvakumaran advised that this is the Respondent’s second breach of the Whip Rule.  The first having occurred in Race 1, which resulted in his receiving a warning.  She suggested a fine of $250, which is commensurate with the Penalty Guide.

Mr Ryan advised that he has recently taken out an Apprenticeship, having previously ridden solely as a Class D (Jumps and Highweight) Rider.

Reasons for Penalty:

Current Penalty Guidelines provide for a fine of $250 in circumstances of a second breach involving one additional strike. There are no aggravating factors to consider. On that basis, the Adjudicative Committee found no reason to depart from the Guideline.

Conclusion:

The Respondent Mr McNeill is fined $250.