Egmont RC 6 August 2023 – R3 – Michael McNab

Background:

Following the running of Race 3, the M J Concept Construction Ltd Maiden, an Information was lodged alleging a breach of Rule 638(1)(d).

Details of the alleged breach were:

in that M McNab (Bow Street) allowed his mount to shift inwards near the 800m when not sufficiently clear of Thermoregulate (K Hercock) which was checked.

Rule 638(1)(d) provides:

A rider shall not ride in a manner which the Adjudicative Committee considers to be .. (d) careless. 

The Respondent confirmed to the Adjudicative Committee that he admitted the breach.

Evidence:

Using available film, Stewards were able to highlight the incident. Approaching the 800 metre mark, BOW STREET was approximately 5-6 horse widths from the fence with THERMOREGULATE to its inside. Mr McNab sought to improve and cross. In doing so, he was insufficiently clear of THERMOREGULATE, who was checked, losing 1-2 lengths.

When asked, Mr McNab commented that it was an error in judgement and that he thought he was sufficiently clear before seeking to cross. To this end, he is seen to look across before moving.

Decision:

The charge having been admitted, is deemed proved.

Submissions for Penalty:

Stewards outlined the Respondent’s record in respect of breaches of this Rule within the last twelve months namely:

22/10/2022  Waikato                  low/mid   – 5 days

2/11/2022    Avondale                low          – 5 days

14/01/2023  Trentham(Grp 3)    low          – 5 days + $450

11/03/2023  Auckland(Grp 1)     mid         – 9 days + $2,000

In addition to the foregoing, the Adjudicative Committee was advised of a suspension imposed in Australia on 10/06/2023. The Respondent has had 826 rides over the last twelve months, being one of the busiest Riders in the country.

Stewards were of the view that the breach was low range and referred the Adjudicative Committee to the current Penalty Guideline. The Respondent made no submission regarding penalty, but did advise that he had no riding commitments confirmed, with any suspension able to commence at the close of racing.

Reasons for Penalty:

The Adjudicative Committee assessed  the breach as low range. Guidelines provide for a 5 days suspension, with this adopted as a starting point. A 1 day reduction was applied, reflecting admission of the breach. His record (in the context of total rides over the last twelve months) was deemed neutral.

Conclusion:

Mr McNab’s Licence to ride in races is suspended for 4 National Riding Days, commencing from the close of racing on 6th August 2023, up to and including 16th August 2023.