Back to decisions search

Non Raceday Inquiry – Written Decision dated 7 January 2025 – Jason Zuppicich

ID: RIB50265

Respondent(s):
Jason Taylor Zuppicich - Other (Starting Gate Attendant)

Applicant:
Neil Goodwin - Stipendiary Steward

Adjudicators:
Tom Castles

Persons Present:
Keith Coppins - Stipendiary Steward, Neil Goodwin - Stipendiary Steward

Information Number:
A16877

Decision Type:
Race Related Charge

Charge:
Striking a horse prior to entering starting gates

Rule(s):
800 - Misconduct -

Plea:
Admitted

Stewards Report

Results

Animal Name:
ENSIGN ARIA

Code:
Thoroughbred

Race Date:
27/12/2024

Race Club:
Taranaki Racing Inc

Race Location:
New Plymouth Raceway - Rogan Street, New Plymouth, 4310

Race Number:
R2

Hearing Date:
31/12/2024

Hearing Location:
New Plymouth

Outcome: Proved

Penalty: Starter's Assistant Jason Zuppicich was fined $300

FACTS

On the 27th of December 2024, Jason Zuppicich was working as a Starter’s Assistant at the New Plymouth Races. The horse ENSIGN ARIA was reluctant to enter the starting gates and became very fractious.  She lashed out with her hind legs on a number of occasions.  Jason Zuppicich, in retaliation, slapped the horse with his hand and kicked her in the stomach area. The horse was scratched from the race. The incident was seen on Trackside, but subsequently removed. He admitted a breach of the Misconduct Rule.

EVIDENCE

Stipendiary Steward N Goodwin stated the horse was very fractious, lashing out many times during the loading process. Jason Zuppicich attempted to calm the horse down, to no avail. He then, in frustration, struck the horse.

A phone video of the incident was shown.

Jason Zuppicich confirmed his admittance and stated he was genuinely sorry for his actions. He had been involved in the Industry for many years and was an accomplished Horseman.

SUBMISSIONS ON PENALTY

A monetary penalty of $500 was asked for by the RIB.  In his submission, Mr Goodwin asked for consideration to be given for Jason Zuppicich’s admittance of the breach and that this was his first charge. Jason Zuppicich asked if there was any alternative to a monetary penalty and was told no.

REASONS FOR PENALTY

The horse was extremely fractious and out of frustration, Jason Zuppicich took the actions he did. His remorse in taking the actions was plain to see and that, along with his guilty plea, was felt to ensure a reduction in the suggested monetary penalty.

PENALTY

Jason Zuppicich was fined $300.

Decision Date: 31/12/2024

Publish Date: 07/01/2025