Auckland TR 6 September 2025 – R8 – Sienna Brown

BACKGROUND

Following the running of Race 8, the ‘Kingmakers Syndication 1300’ an Information was lodged alleging a breach of Rule 638(3)(g)(i). The Information read as follows:

‘In that she struck her mount 9 times prior to the 100 metres’

Rule 638(3)(g)(i) provides (g) a Rider must not (i) except as provided for in (iii)(A) and (iii)(B) of this sub rule, 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);

Ms Brown, with the assistance of Ms Satherley, acknowledged that she understood the Rule, the nature of the charge and confirmed her admission of the breach.

EVIDENCE

Using the available race film, Stewards identified the incident. Entering the home straight, HADID was positioned 2-3 horse widths from the fence. The Respondent is seen to strike her mount on 9 occasions, between the top of the straight and the 100 metre mark. The horse is struck on 1 further occasion prior to the finish post. HADID finished 9th in the event.

When asked, the Respondent confirmed that she agreed with the count. By way of explanation, Ms Brown commented that she had miscalculated where she thought the 100 metre mark was. This was reiterated by Ms Satherley.

DECISION

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

SUBMISSIONS ON PENALTY

Chief Stipendiary Steward Mr Oatham produced the Respondent’s record, as it relates to any breach of this Rule within the last six months. Her record is clear to this point. Stewards referred the Adjudicative Committee to the current NZTR Penalty Guide, which provides for a starting point of a 5-day suspension – first offence 4 or more additional strikes.

In relation to penalty, Ms Brown asked that where a suspension was imposed, same be deferred until completion of racing on 10 September 2025.

REASONS FOR PENALTY

The breach is clearly identified by film. After considering same, along with respective submissions, the Adjudicative Committee determined there was no compelling reason to depart from that starting point prescribed within the Penalty Guide. The request for deferment is granted. On that basis, the Respondent’s Licence to ride in races is suspended for 5 National Riding Days.

CONCLUSION

Ms Brown’s Licence to ride in races is suspended for 5 National Riding Days, from the close of racing on 10 September 2025, up to and including 17 September 2025.