Auckland TR 27 April 2026 – R4 – Joe Doyle

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 4, Senior Stipendiary Steward, Mr A Dooley lodged an Information alleging Class A Rider Mr J Doyle breached Whip Rule 638(3)(f)(ii) in that he twice used his whip with arm raised above shoulder height on his mount LUVABEEL over the concluding stages.

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

Using the head and side-on race films, Mr Dooley demonstrated the breach. He pointed out that Mr Doyle struck his mount twice in the home straight, in breach of the Rule. He said both strikes were applied inside the final 100 metres of the race. Each of the non-compliant strikes were applied using an action that included raising his whip above shoulder height.

Mr Doyle’s mount, LUVABEEL finished in second place.

In response, Mr Doyle agreed with the Steward’s interpretation of the breach. He said that he was racing in tight quarters and used an upward action to avoid the horse and Rider on his inside.

DECISION:

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

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Dooley advised that Mr Doyle has a clear record under the Rule. He said that the Penalty Guide provides for a $250 fine for a first breach. He recommended that this would be an appropriate fine.

Mr Doyle had nothing further to add concerning penalty.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Doyle’s used his whip on two occasions, with his arm raised above shoulder height, during the concluding stages of the race. Both strikes were deemed non-compliant under the relevant Rule.

In determining the appropriate penalty, the Adjudicative Committee considered Mr Doyle’s good record under this particular Rule and his admission of the breach. Having weighed these considerations, the Adjudicative Committee decided to impose a fine of $250. This penalty aligns with the amount specified in the Penalty Guide, for a first breach of this nature.

CONCLUSION:

Accordingly, Mr Doyle was fined $250.