Matamata RC 29 March 2023 – R1 – Dean Parker

ID: RIB17934

Respondent(s):
Dean Parker - Jockey

Applicant:
Mr B Jones - Senior Stipendiary Steward

Adjudicators:
Mr G R Jones

Persons Present:
Mr B Jones, Mr D Parker

Information Number:
A19752

Decision Type:
Race Related Charge

Charge:
Excessive Use of Whip

Rule(s):
638(3)(g)(i) - Contravention whip rule

Plea:
Admitted

Animal Name:
SPECIAL SWEY

Code:
Thoroughbred

Race Date:
29/03/2023

Race Club:
Matamata Racing Club

Race Location:
Matamata Racecourse - 7555 State Highway 27, R D 3, Matamata, 3440

Race Number:
R1

Hearing Date:
29/03/2023

Hearing Location:
Matamata Racecourse

Outcome: Proved

Penalty: Jockey Dean Parker is fined $250

Evidence

Following the running of Race 1, the Gregory Equine 2000 (HWT), the Respondent Class D (Jumps) Rider Mr Parker (SPECIAL SWEY) admitted a charge alleging excessive whip use (7 strikes) 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, Senior Stipendiary Steward Mr Jones pointed out SPECIAL SWEY (D Parker) racing in third place as the field entered the final straight.  He demonstrated that Mr Parker struck his mount 7 times prior to the 100-metre mark.

Mr Parker accepted the number of strikes and had nothing further to add.

Decision

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

Submissions For Penalty

Mr Jones advised that the Respondent has a clear record in terms of whip breaches over the previous 6 months.

Mr Jones submitted that the Penalty Guide provides for a $250 fine for a breach of this nature. He said that a fine in accordance with the Guide would be appropriate in this case.

Mr Parker had nothing to add in relation to the penalty.

Reasons For Penalty

The NZTR Penalty Guidelines provide for a $250 fine for a first breach involving two more strikes than the permitted five. There are no aggravating factors to consider.  On that basis, a fine of $250 as per the Penalty Guide is imposed.

Conclusion

Mr Parker is fined $250.

Decision Date: 29/03/2023

Publish Date: 29/03/2023