Riccarton Park – Amberley 9 March 2023 – R4 – Jeetesh Mudhoo

BACKGROUND:

Following the running of Race 4, Punters Challenge 15 April Maiden,  Apprentice Jockey Jeetesh Mudhoo, as the rider of TROGLODYTE in the race, admitted a charge that he used his whip 7 times prior to the 100 metres.

Rule 638(3) provides:

(g)     Subject to the other requirements this Rule 638(3), in a Flat Race or trial (including jump-outs and/or tests for certification purposes), 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.

The Respondent was assisted at the hearing by Apprentice Jockey Mentor, David Walsh

EVIDENCE:

Mr Davidson pointed out, on a video replay, TROGLODYTE, ridden by the Respondent, racing towards the rear as the field neared the home straight. The Respondent looked for a run through runners and commenced using his whip. Mr Davidson showed that he struck his mount 7 times from that point to the 100 metres.

Mr Walsh said that the Respondent had fallen into the trap of commencing to use his whip before the turn. It was a long way to the 100 metres from there he said. The breach was clearcut, he added.

DECISION:

The charge having been admitted, it is therefore deemed proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Davidson said that the Respondent has one previous breach on his record – on 19 November 2022 at Rangitikei (5 days for 7 strikes). His record was bad at that time. He referred to the Penalty Guide starting point of a $500 fine. There were no aggravating factors, he said.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

This is a second breach involving two strikes above the permitted five. For such a breach, the RIB Thoroughbred Racing Penalty Guide February 2023) suggests a starting point for penalty of a $500 fine. There are no factors, either aggravating or mitigating, warranting a departure from that starting point.

CONCLUSION:

The Respondent, Apprentice Jockey Jeetesh Mudhoo, is fined $500.