Otago RC 28 March 2025 – R3 – Billy Jacobson
ID: RIB53171
Animal Name:
GENTLE BEN
Code:
Thoroughbred
Race Date:
28/03/2025
Race Club:
Otago Racing Club
Race Location:
Wingatui Racecourse - 285 Gladstone Road North, Mosgiel, Dunedin,
Race Number:
R3
Hearing Date:
28/03/2025
Hearing Location:
Dunedin
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Class A Rider Billy Jacobson is fined $500
Mr Davidson alleged that in Race 3, Mr Jacobson struck his mount GENTLE BEN with the whip 7 times prior to the 100 metres mark and a further five strikes inside the final 100 metres.
Mr Oatham demonstrated on the videos that the Respondent was racing midfield as the field straightened up for the run home. He was in the middle of the track, making good ground, and he used his whip 7 times prior to the 100 metres. The first of the strikes was at the top of the straight and last of the 7 was immediately before the 100 metres. There were a further 5 in the last 100 metres.
Mr Jacobson agreed with the Stewards’ count. Mr Jacobson commented he was not counting at the time, and he was encouraging GENTLE BEN, which was making good ground.
Decision
As Mr Jacobson has admitted the breach, it is found to be proved.
Submissions as to Penalty
Mr Davidson produced the Respondent’s record, which evidenced 1 breach of this Rule in the past 6 months. This breach was at Riccarton in February, where the count was 10 prior to the 100 metres.
Mr Jacobson said a fine of $500 was a substantial penalty. He stated he was trying to do his best. He would normally count, but was concentrating on making up ground considering how far he was from the leader at the top of the straight.
Reasons for Penalty
The Penalty Guide provides a $500 fine for a 2nd breach where the count is 7 strikes. There is no uplift or discount. Mr Jacobson finished second, half a head from the winner. There was a length back to third.
Conclusion
Mr Jacobson is fined the sum of $500.
Decision Date: 28/03/2025
Publish Date: 01/04/2025