Oamaru JC 26 July 2023 – R4 – Tanya Jonker

Mr Davidson alleged that in Race 4, Ms Jonker directed her mount LOMBARDI outwards when not sufficiently clear of CORNETTO, which was checked near the 1200 metres.

Mr Oatham demonstrated on the videos that the Respondent was racing back of mid-field and was coming onto the course proper. She directed her mount outwards on an angled run. Mr May, the Rider of CORNETTO, had to take hold to avoid LOMBARDI. The head of CORNETTO comes up and the horse loses ground. The side-on video shows that Ms Jonker was only a length clear when she commenced to shift ground.

Ms Jonker said it was an honest mistake. She saw a space and thought she was clear. She was not aware the other horse was there.

Decision

As Ms Jonker has admitted the breach, it is found to be proved.

Submissions as to Penalty

Mr Davidson produced the Respondent’s record which showed 1 previous breach in the past 12 months, on 4 June 2023. He submitted that the breach was low-range and a penalty in accordance with the RIB Penalty Guide was appropriate.

Ms Jonker accepted this and reiterated it was her fault.

Reasons for Penalty

Ms Jonker has shifted ground when not clear of CORNETTO, and Mr May has had to take hold to avoid her mount, LOMBARDI. The breach is low-range. Ms Jonker has one previous breach of this Rule, which is recent in that it was only last month.

Taking a 5-day starting point, there is a one-day uplift for record and a one-day discount for admission of the breach.

Conclusion

Ms Jonker is suspended from riding at the end of the meeting today, up to and including 5 August. This is 5 national days.