Otago RC 5 September 2025 – R1 – Brett Murray

ID: RIB58526

Respondent(s):
Brett MacGregor Murray - Jockey

Applicant:
Miss Rebecca Haley, Stipendiary Steward

Adjudicators:
Geoff Hall

Persons Present:
Mrs Veronica Fisher, Stipendiary Steward

Information Number:
A20649

Decision Type:
Race Related Charge

Charge:
Incorrect use of whip

Rule(s):
638(3)(f)(xi) - Contravention whip rule

Plea:
Admitted

Animal Name:
ROCCODIORO

Code:
Thoroughbred

Race Date:
05/09/2025

Race Club:
Otago Racing Club

Race Location:
Wingatui Racecourse - 285 Gladstone Road North, Mosgiel, Dunedin,

Race Number:
R1

Hearing Date:
05/09/2025

Hearing Location:
Dunedin

Outcome: Proved

Penalty: Class A Rider Brett Murray is fined $300

Miss Haley alleged a breach of r 638(3)(f)(xi) by Class A Jockey Mr Murray in Race 1, in that he struck his horse ROCCODIORO forward of the saddle, whilst the whip is held in the forehand position on two occasions throughout the final straight.

The Rule states:

(f) Without limiting the generality of subrule 638(3)(e), in a Flat Race or Jumping Race, a Trial (including jump-outs and/or tests for certification purposes) a Rider must not use his or her whip:

(xi) forward of the Rider’s saddle whilst the whip is held in the forehand position.

Mr Murray stated he was conversant with the Rule and confirmed he admitted the breach.

Mrs Fisher identified Mr Murray on the final straight video, racing down the inside of the track near the rail. Miss Haley pointed out that Mr Murray struck his horse once forward of the saddle early in the straight and then a little later, again, once more.

Mr Murray said it was a misjudgement.

DECISION:

The Respondent has admitted the breach. The charge is found to be proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Miss Haley stated Mr Murray has a clear record under the Rule.

Miss Haley said a fine of $300 is the starting point in the Penalty Guide.

Mr Murray made no submissions on penalty.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Penalty Guide provides a $300 fine starting point for a first breach of the Rule. There are no factors in this case for the Adjudicative Committee to depart from the starting point.

CONCLUSION:

Class A Jockey Mr Murray is fined $300.

Decision Date: 05/09/2025

Publish Date: 08/09/2025