Manawatu RC 7 May 2023 – R5 – Kate Hercock
ID: RIB20859
Animal Name:
WENEEDASHOCK
Code:
Thoroughbred
Race Date:
07/05/2023
Race Club:
Manawatu Race Club
Race Location:
Awapuni Racing Centre - 67 Racecourse Road, Awapuni, Palmerston North, 4412
Race Number:
R5
Hearing Date:
07/05/2023
Hearing Location:
Awapuni
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Jockey Kate Hercock is suspended for 2 days and fined $500
Evidence
Following the running of Race 5, the Respondent Ms K Hercock, 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, Ms Selvakumaran demonstrated that Ms Hercock was racing in the trail on the rail when she used her whip 6 times, with the last strike being 3 strides prior to the 100m mark.
Decision
As Ms Hercock admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved.
Submissions For Penalty
Ms Selvakumaran produced the Respondent’s record which indicated 3 previous breaches in the last 6 months:
10/4/23  6 strikes  $500 + 2 days suspension
24/3/23  6 strikes  $500 + 2 days suspension
18/11/22  6 strikes  5 day suspension
Ms Hercock advised of riding commitments through until Saturday May 13th and sought a deferment until then.
Reasons For Penalty
The Penalty Guide starting point for a 4th breach of 1 strike over is a $500 fine and a suspension of 2 national days.
After considering the film evidence, the submissions and having due regard for the number and frequency of strikes, the Adjudicative Committee determined there are no compelling reasons to depart from the starting point set out in the Penalty Guide.
On that basis, Ms Hercock is fined $500 and suspended for 2 days. Her request for a deferment is granted.
Conclusion
Ms Hercock’s Licence to ride in races is suspended for 2 days, from close of racing on Saturday May 13th, until close of racing on May 17th.
In addition, a fine of $500 is imposed.
Decision Date: 07/05/2023
Publish Date: 08/05/2023