Auckland TR 8 April 2023 – R2 – Hamish McNeill
ID: RIB18319
Animal Name:
LINCOLN STAR
Code:
Thoroughbred
Race Date:
08/04/2023
Race Club:
Auckland Thoroughbred Racing
Race Location:
Pukekohe Park - 222/250 Manukau Road, Pukekohe Hill, Pukekohe, 2120
Race Number:
R2
Hearing Date:
08/04/2023
Hearing Location:
Pukekohe RC
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Apprentice Rider, Hamish McNeill suspended for 5 days
Evidence:
Following the running of Race 2, the Alpha First Mortgage Investments 2200m, Information Number A19759 was lodged alleging the Respondent, Apprentice Rider Mr H McNeill, struck his mount, LINCOLN STAR, seven 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 639(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, Mr Dooley demonstrated that LINCOLN STAR was racing mid-field in the middle of the track. He pointed out that from the straight entrance to the 100-metre mark Mr McNeill struck his mount seven times.
Mr McNeill agreed with the number of strikes and added that he is making a conscious effort to improve his technique. Mr Harris said that he needs to return his whip hand to the reins after each strike.
Decision:
As the Respondent admitted the breach the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved.
Submissions for Penalty:
Mr Jones advised that this is the Respondent’s third breach of the Whip Rule. His previous breach on 22 March 2023 resulted in a $250 fine (6 strikes).
Mr Jones submitted that the Penalty Guide recommends a 5-day suspension for a third breach involving 7 strikes (2 more than permitted).
Mr McNeill sought a 7-day deferment to any proposed penalty. He had nothing further to add regarding the penalty.
Reasons for Penalty:
Current Penalty Guidelines provide for a 5-day suspension in circumstances of a third breach involving two additional strikes. There are no aggravating factors to consider. On that basis the Adjudicative Committee found no reason to depart from the Guideline.
A 7-day deferment is granted.
Conclusion:
The Respondent, Mr McNeill’s Licence to ride in races is suspended for 5 days commencing after racing on 15 April 2023 and concluding after racing on 25 April 2023.
Decision Date: 08/04/2023
Publish Date: 10/04/2023