Auckland TR 24 January 2026 – R3 – Angela Jones

Background:

Following the running of Race 3, the Group 3 ‘Elsdon Park Aotearoa Classic’, an Information was lodged alleging a breach of Rule 638(3)(f)(ii). Details are as follows:

‘in that she used her whip using an action that raises the riders arm above shoulder height in the final straight’.

Rule 638(3)(f)(ii) provides:

(f) A Rider must not use his or her whip:

(ii) using an action that raises the Rider’s arm above shoulder height.

The Respondent confirmed to the Adjudicative Committee that she admitted the breach. She also confirmed that she remained aware of her obligations under the NZTR Rules of Racing.

Evidence:

Using available film, Stewards identified the incident. In the straight, SILVER WEDDING was positioned away from the fence. Between the 200m and 100m mark, Ms Jones is seen to strike her mount on 3 occasions with an action commencing from above shoulder height. An additional strike was deemed marginal. Ms Jones agreed with Steward interpretation.

Decision:

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

Submissions for Penalty:

Stewards referred the Adjudicative Committee to the current Penalty Guide where same provides for a $250 fine as starting point for a breach of this type.  Stewards suggested that given circumstance ie: race status, the Adjudicative Committee may consider a ‘modest’ uplift. The Respondent did not provide input.

Reasons for Penalty:

Available film clearly identified the breach. The current Penalty Guide provides for a $250 fine for a breach of this particular Rule. SILVER WEDDING finished 8th in the event, earning a stake of $20,000, with the Respondent’s share thus being $1,000. Reflecting the status of the race, the stake earnt, along whilst acknowledging that the Respondent had received a warning with respect to this Rule in Race 1, an uplift in penalty was deemed appropriate. A fine of $400 was imposed.

Conclusion:

Ms Jones is fined a sum of $400.