Otago RC 2 March 2024 – R8 – Leah Hemi

Mr Davidson alleged that Ms Hemi in Race 8, angled her mount TEXAS DOLLY outwards  near the 900 metres forcing EPEE BEEL and RAPTYLIGHT wider on the track with WARNING SIGNAL being hampered as a result.

Ms Algar demonstrated on the videos that on the home bend, Ms Hemi angled her mount TEXAS DOLLY outwards. EPEE BEEL and RAPTYLIGHT were forced wider on the track and WARNING SIGNAL was hampered.

Mr Davidson added that TEXAS DOLLY was a green horse, but the films were clear.

Ms Hemi said she had clear air as a consequence of the riderless horse. She came out for a run. She accepted it was not there at that time.

Decision

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

Submissions as to Penalty

Mr Davidson produced the Respondent’s record, which was very good, with only one breach of this Rule in the past 12 months, a low-range breach in December. Ms Hemi has had 164 rides this season. He described the breach as at the lower end of the scale, taking into account the horse was inexperienced.

Ms Hemi stated she accepted Mr Davidson’s submissions and wished the suspension to start after racing next Saturday.

Reasons for Penalty

Ms Hemi has shifted ground outwards when not her length and another clear and has inconvenienced a number of runners.  It is a low end breach and from a 5-day starting point, there is a one-day uplift for the fact it is a Listed Race and a similar reduction for admission of the breach and Ms Hemi’s good record.

Conclusion

Ms Hemi is suspended from the end of racing on 9 March, up to and including 17 March 2024. This is 5 national riding days.