Feilding JC 30 May 2024 – R4 – Liam Kauri

Background:

Following the running of Race 4, the ‘Gary Dyer Painters and Decorators 2140’, an Information was lodged alleging a breach of Rule 638(1)(d) . Details are as follows:

‘in that L Kauri (Justaskpercy) allowed his mount to shift outwards when not sufficiently clear of Hayate (W Kennedy) which was checked near the 250m’.

Rule 638(1)(d) provides:

(1) A Rider shall not ride a horse in a manner which the Adjudicative Committee considers to be:

(d) careless’.

The Respondent (assisted by Apprentice Jockey Mentor Ms Clapperton) confirmed to the Adjudicative Committee that he understood the Rule and admitted the breach.

Evidence:

Using available film, Stewards identified the incident and horses involved. As the field straightened for the run home, JUSTASKPERCY was positioned 6-7 horses widths away from the fence and slightly worse than mid field. At this point, Mr Kauri looked to improve between horses, however this gap narrowed. As a reaction to this, Mr Kauri suddenly looked to steer his mount out. In doing so, he was insufficiently clear of HAYATE, who was checked and forced over extra ground. When questioned, Mr Kauiri admitted an error in judgement. He did glance momentarily, with this being a reaction to Mr Kennedy calling.

Decision:

As the Respondent admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee found the breach proved.

Submissions for Penalty:

Stewards outlined the Respondent’s record as it relates to any breach of this particular Rule within the last twelve months. There was one noted, being a 4 day suspension imposed for a low range careless ride at Wanganui on 22 February 2024. Stewards contended that the breach was low range and referred the Adjudicative Committee to the current NZTR Penalty Guide. Mr Kauri sought deferment of any suspension to enable him to satisfy riding commitments at Otaki on 8 June 2024.

Reasons for Penalty:

The Adjudicative Committee was satisfied that the breach represented a low range careless ride. Film identified that the Respondent was insufficiently clear when moving out with this action, causing the check to HAYATE. The current NZTR Penalty Guide provides for a starting point of a 5 day suspension – low range careless. There were no mitigating or aggravating  factors affecting the Adjudicative Committee’s decision. As such, a 5 day suspension was deemed an appropriate sanction. The Respondent’s request for deferment was granted.

Conclusion:

Mr Kauri’s Licence to ride in races is suspended for 5 National Riding Days, from the close of racing on 8 June 2024, up to and including, 19 June 2024.