Cambridge JC 13 July 2023 – R8 – Ngakau Hailey

Evidence:

Following Race 8, the “Nems Medical 2000”, Mr Jones, Senior Stipendiary Steward, presented an Information charging Apprentice Rider Mr N Hailey, in that he rode carelessly in breach of Rule 638(1)(d).

The Information alleged that Mr Hailey permitted his mount “NORTHERN RAIDER” to shift out when not sufficiently clear of “RARE COMPANY”, ridden by Mr Elliot, which was checked near the 100 metres.

Mr Hailey, assisted by Mr N Harris, admitted the charge.

Mr Dooley identified from the race film that when “NORTHERN RAIDER” was in contention in the the home straight, it began to hang out.  Rather than correct this movement, Apprentice Rider Mr N Hailey continued to ride with vigour and using his whip, but failed to correct the movement and he allowed his mount to continue to shift outwards so that, when not the required distance clear of “RARE COMPANY”, at about the 100m mark, caused Mr Elliot to check that mount to prevent contact occurring.  “NORTHERN RAIDER” finished 3rd and “RARE COMPANY” 4th.

Decision:

As the charge was admitted, it was deemed proved.

Submissions for Penalty:

Mr Jones submitted that the degree of carelessness was in the low to medium range and that since commencing riding, Mr Hailey had a clear record.

Mr Harris advised that Mr Hailey, as a young Apprentice, had been riding for 2 months, was promising, had ridden 4 winners, and was learning from experience.

Reasons for Penalty:

This very young Apprentice had had 36 rides since commencing his career 2 months ago.  His error, arising out of youthful inexperience, at a lower level, does not warrant a stern penalty.  But a suspension of his Licence is necessary to bring home to him, and others, of the importance of the “Careless Riding Rule”.

Conclusion:

A suspension of Mr Hailey’s Licence to ride for a period of 4 National Riding Days is imposed.  Because Mr Hailey has riding commitments up to 22 July 2023, he is entitled to have a 10 day deferment, so the suspension commences thereafter at the conclusion of racing on 22 July 2023, and will end at the conclusion of racing on 28 July 2023.