Otago RC 28 April 2024 – R4 – Ruvanesh Muniandy

Mr Oatham alleged that Mr Muniandy rode carelessly in Race 4, by shifting ground inwards passing the 200 metres, checking GUNNAR (Mr Chowdhoory).

Miss Haley demonstrated on the videos that the Respondent was racing one from the outside at the rear of the field. GUNNAR was to his inside and, in making his run in the home straight, Mr Muniandy shifted inwards and checked that horse. Mr Muniandy was using his whip and, while he tried to straighten his horse, it was too late.

Mr Laking said it was clear on the videos, that Mr Muniandy had given his mount 3 with the whip. He was still pushing the horse when it was shifting ground and had only tried to straighten it after the interference.

Mr Muniandy agreed he had straightened the horse too late.

Decision

As Mr Muniandy has admitted the breach, it is found to be proved.

Submissions as to Penalty

Mr Oatham produced the Respondent’s record. This was Mr Muniandy’s third breach of the Careless Riding Rule since 2 March. He said Mr Muniandy has had 70 rides since 7 November 2023. He described the breach as mid to low range.

Mr Laking agreed with the Stewards’ assessment of the gravity of the breach. He said he had been working regularly with Mr Muniandy, whose riding was improving.

Mr Muniandy stated he wished the suspension to commence immediately.

Reasons for Penalty

Mr Muniandy has shifted ground inwards when not clear of Mr Chowdhoory. He is an inexperienced Rider who is working with the Apprentice Mentor, but this is his third breach of the Careless Riding Rule in a short time. It is a mid to low range breach and from a 6-day starting point, there is a one-day reduction for admission of the breach.

Conclusion

Mr Muniandy is suspended from the end of racing today, up to and including 5 May 2024. This is 5 national riding days.