Canterbury JC 3 November 2021 – R7 – Rohan Mudhoo

SUMMARY OF FACTS:

Jockey Rohan Mudhoo was charged after Race 7, NZB Ready To Run Sale 17-18 November Premier, that he struck his mount, EL BEE DARCI, 6 times prior to the 100 metres.

The Rule provides that a Rider must not strike a horse with a whip more than 5 times prior to the 100-metre mark.

Apprentice Jockey Mentor, Mr David Walsh, was not available but Mr Mudhoo, who had viewed the video replay with Mr Walsh, was happy for the hearing to proceed in Mr Walsh’s absence.

SUBMISSIONS:

Mr Oatham showed a video replay of the final 400 metres of the race. He pointed out, EL BEE DARCI, ridden by Mr Mudhoo, the widest runner as the field turned into the final straight. He said that, from that point, Mr Mudhoo used his whip 6 times prior to the 100-metres mark, with a 7th strike just inside the 100 metres.

Mr Mudhoo accepted the alleged count of 6 strikes and did not wish to comment.

REASON FOR DECISION:

Mr Mudhoo has admitted the charge which is found proved accordingly.

SUBMISSION FOR PENALTY:

Mr Oatham told the Committee that Mr Mudhoo has one previous breach of the Whip Rules on his record – on 25 July at Oamaru (8 strikes, fined $300).

The Penalty Guidelines provide, for a second breach, for a fine of $500 or 50% of the Rider’s share of the stake. A fine of $500 was the appropriate penalty on this occasion, Mr Oatham submitted.

REASON FOR PENALTY:

The NZTR Revised Penalty Guidelines provide for a fine, in this case, of $500 for what is a second breach by Mr Mudhoo. There is no need for the Committee to depart from that in this case.

CONCLUSION:

Apprentice Jockey Rohan Mudhoo is fined the sum of $500.