Hawke’s Bay RI 31 December 2021 – R4 – Dylan Turner

Evidence

Following the running of Race 4, the Respondent, Rider Dylan Turner admitted a charge alleging excessive whip use prior to the 100 metres.

Rule 638(3)(g)(i) provides that in a Flat Race 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); or

Using the available race films Stipendiary Steward, Mr N Goodwin pointed out the number of whip strikes prior to the 100 metres mark.

In response, Mr Turner agreed he had exceeded the number of allowable strikes by one .  He had no further comment to make.

Decision

As the Respondent Mr D Turner admitted the breach the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved (Rule 915(1)(d) refers).

Submissions For Penalty

Mr Goodwin produced the Respondent Rider D Turner’s record which indicated this was his second breach of the Rule and asked for a penalty as per the Guidelines to be imposed.

Mr Turner concurred that this was his second breach of the Rule and was aware of the Penalty Guidelines.

Reasons For Penalty

The Penalty Guide starting point for a breach of this nature is set out below.

2nd offence starting point Greater of $500 fine or 50% of jockey share of stake.

After considering the film evidence, the submissions and having due regard for the number and frequency of strikes; the force used; the Adjudicative Committee determined there are no compelling reasons to depart from the starting point set out in the Penalty Guide.

On that basis the Respondent is fined $500.

Conclusion

The Respondent, Jockey Dylan Turner is fined $500.