Auckland TR 22 November 2025 – R1 – Corentin Berge

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 1, Deputy Chief Stipendiary Steward, Mr B Jones lodged an Information alleging Class A Rider Mr C Berge breached Whip Rule 638(3)(f)(ii) in that he used his whip with arm raised above shoulder height on one occasion over the concluding stages, on his mount MOSCHINO.

Mr Berge admitted the breach and acknowledged that he understood the nature of the charge.

Using the race films, Mr Jones demonstrated the breach. He pointed out that Mr Berge struck his mount a total of three times in the home straight.  He said the first strike was compliant, the second strike was ‘questionable’, but during the third strike, he used an action that included raising his whip above shoulder height.

Mr Berge’s mount (MOSCHINO) finished in second place.

In response, Mr Berge agreed with the Steward’s interpretation of the breach and had nothing further to add.

DECISION:

As the charge was admitted, it was deemed to be proven.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Jones advised that Mr Berge has had two previous breaches of this Rule. The first breach occurred on 1 November 2025 and resulted in a $250 fine. The most recent occurred on 15 November 2025. He said this involved two strikes above shoulder height, resulting in a $300 fine.

Mr Jones advised that the Penalty Guide provides for a $250 fine for a first offence. This being Mr Berge’s third breach over a relatively brief period, his record is not good, and an uplift is required.  He suggested a fine in the vicinity of $450 to $500.

Mr Berge acknowledged he was still adjusting from the European whip action, to which he was more accustomed, and offered no further submissions regarding penalty.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Adjudicative Committee considered the submissions and determined that the matter could be dealt with by way of a fine. This was Mr Berge’s third breach of the Rule in three weeks. His previous breach on 15 November 2025 resulted in a $300 fine, during which it was noted that he was attempting to adapt his whip action since recently commencing riding in New Zealand.

This breach involved one strike above shoulder height, with a total of three strikes. Starting from the $250 guideline, the Adjudicative Committee applied a $250 uplift due to his record and the frequency of breaches. The Adjudicative Committee noted that previous fines had not served as effective deterrents, and no mitigating factors were present.

Mr Berge was advised that any further breach within the 6-month reset period, could result in a more substantial fine or suspension. He was encouraged to continue adjusting his style and whip action to avoid future breaches.

CONCLUSION:

Accordingly, Mr Berge was fined $500.