Avondale JC 4 June 2022 – R2 – Masa Hashizume

Evidence

Following the running of Race 2, the Respondent Apprentice Rider Mr Masa Hashizume admitted a charge alleging excessive whip use prior to the 100 metres.

Apprentice Mentor Noel Harris was present and assisted Mr Hashizume at the hearing.

Rule 638(3)(g)(i) provides that in a Flat Race a Rider must not:

(i) 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); or

Using the available race films, Stipendiary Steward Mr Dooley demonstrated that the Respondent struck his mount 6 times from the straight entrance to the 100-metre mark.

In response, Mr Hashizume said that he agreed with the number of strikes and had nothing further to add.

Decision

As Mr Hashizume admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved.

Submissions For Penalty

Mr Williamson produced Mr Hashizume’s record which indicated one previous breach under the Rule. This occurred on 23 April 2022 at Auckland TR, (7 strikes -2 additional), in a Group 3 race and resulted in a $400 fine, which comprised of $250 + 50% of his share of the stake earned due to the breach having occurred in a Black Type race.

Mr Williamson submitted that a fine be imposed commensurate with the NZTR revised Penalty Guidelines (as of 1 March 2022) for a second breach (1 additional strike).

The Respondent said that he has a good record and nothing further to add in terms of penalty.

Reasons For Penalty

The Penalty Guide starting point for a breach of this nature is a $250 fine.

There are no aggravating factors to consider.

After considering the film evidence, the submissions and having due regard for the number of strikes and circumstances of the breach the Adjudicative Committee determined there are no reasons to deviate from the starting point set out in the Penalty Guide. On that basis a $250 fine is imposed.

Conclusion

Mr Hashizume is fined $250.