Manawatu RC 29 March 2025 – R8 – Ryan Elliot

Evidence:

Following the running of Race 8, the Group 1 Courtesy Ford Manawatu Sires’ Produce Stakes, Class A Rider, Mr R Elliot admitted a charge of careless riding, which was filed pursuant to Rule 638(1)(d). The Information alleged that he permitted his mount LANDLOCK to shift outwards when not sufficiently clear, crowding TAJANA onto VEGA FOR LUCK, which was checked near the 250metres.

Rule 638(1)(d) provides: A Rider shall not ride a horse in a manner which the Adjudicative Committee considers to be careless.

Stipendiary Steward Mr N Goodwin played the race footage, and demonstrated where Mr Elliot moved outward, jostling Ms Spratt (TAJANA), who in turn pushed V Colgan (VEGA FOR LUCK) across the heels of HOSTILITY. Mr Colgan was forced to take evasive action as a result.

In response, Mr Elliot admitted to being the cause of the majority of the interference, but maintained that HOSTILITY contributed to the incident by moving in from a 6-wide to 4-wide position.

Decision:

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

Submissions for Penalty:

Mr Oatham said Mr Elliot had an excellent record. His last charge for careless riding was in November 2023 – 16 months ago.

He has had 291 rides in the past 12 months.

Mr Oatham said Stewards assessed the level of carelessness to be in the mid-range, but it was a Group 1 Race with a significant stake. In addition, a relegation had occurred.

Mr Elliot said because he doesn’t ride during the winter months, the number of rides in the last 12 months has been compacted into a smaller timeframe, supporting the fact he is a busy Rider.

He advised of riding engagements through until April 5th 2025 and sought a deferment to any proposed suspension.

Reasons for Penalty:

The Adjudicative Committee carefully considered all submissions and assessed the severity of the breach. Mr Elliot found himself blocked for a run and angled outwards when not sufficiently clear of Ms Spratt’s mount.  While his intent to improve his position in a Group 1 Race is understandable, he must nonetheless adhere to Racing Rules. The interference caused significant disruption, particularly to Mr Colgan’s mount, warranting a mid-range classification. Using the NZTR Penalty Guide (February 2025), a 7-day suspension was adopted as the starting point.

A 1-day reduction was applied for Mr Elliot’s admission of the breach  and clear record, however, the Group 1 status, substantial prize money, and relegation justified a 3-day uplift. The final penalty imposed was a 9-day suspension and a $650 fine.

Rule 920(2) permits the Adjudicative Committee to consider race status, stake value, and consequences when determining penalties, all of which were factored into this decision.

Conclusion:

Mr Elliot’s request for a deferment is granted and his Licence to ride in races is suspended for a period of 9 days, commencing after racing on Saturday April 5th until close of racing on April 21st. In addition, he is fined $650.