Matamata RC 25 September 2021 – R5 – Sam Spratt

SUMMARY OF FACTS:

Following the running of Race 5 Ms Samantha Spratt was charged with careless riding.  It was alleged that she allowed her mount “WHANGA WONDER” to shift outwards when not sufficiently clear, crowding “SHE’S APPLES” which was forced outwards resulting in “AURORA DOLCE” having to steady to avoid heels near the 150m.

EVIDENCE:

Mr Jones showed the film replays and identified the horses involved.  He said that Ms Spratt when only a head to a neck clear, made a sharp outward movement making firm contact with “SHE’S APPLES” who was forced across the line of “AURORA DOLCE”.

Ms Spratt said that “AURORA DOLCE” was not checked and only had to be steadied.  She added that “SHE’S APPLES” had shifted out and then in and that it looked worse than it was.

REASON FOR DECISION:

As Ms Spratt admitted the breach together with the clear film evidence the charge was found proved.

SUBMISSION FOR PENALTY:

Mr Oatham produced Ms Spratt’s record which showed two breaches of the Rule in the last 12 months, those being on 28 December 2020 (5 Days Suspension + $500 fine) and on 20 February 2021 (9 Days Suspension + $1000 fine – that being a Group 2 Event).

Mr Oatham placed the carelessness in the low to mid-range area.

Ms Spratt said that her record was good in the last 7 to 8 months.

REASON FOR PENALTY:

The Committee took into account the record, the degree of interference and placed the carelessness just short of mid-range.

When considering the Penalty Guide starting point, together with all aforementioned factors, it was determined that a suspension of 5 Riding Days was an appropriate penalty.  This took into account a discount of one day for the recent record and the admitted breach.

CONCLUSIONS:

Ms Spratt’s Jockey’s Licence was suspended from the end of racing on 3 October to 10 October 2021 inclusive (5 days).