Otago RC 9 September 2022 – R4 – Savish Khetoo
ID: RIB11035
Animal Name:
REINEDELARIVIERE
Code:
Thoroughbred
Race Date:
09/09/2022
Race Club:
Otago Racing Club
Race Location:
Wingatui Racecourse - 285 Gladstone Road North, Mosgiel, Dunedin,
Race Number:
R4
Hearing Date:
09/09/2022
Hearing Location:
Dunedin
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Apprentice Jockey Savish Khetoo is fined $250
Background
Miss Haley alleged that Mr Khetoo in Race 4 had struck his mount REINEDELARIVIERE forward of the shoulder at the 350 metres.
Mr Oatham demonstrated on the videos that the first of six strikes to the horse prior to the 100 metres was forward of the shoulder. The videos were not the best angle, but the strike appeared to be to the middle of the neck. Mr Oatham and Miss Haley both accepted the strike was not intentional.
Mr Khetoo explained he was trying on the advice of Mr Walsh to use the whip in his right hand. However, this was not natural for him, and it was confusing. He acknowledged Mr Walsh’s assistance but he had used the whip in his left hand on this occasion. He was unaware he had hit the horse forward of the shoulder.
Mr Walsh said the Respondent was intent on putting his mount under pressure, but he should not have hit the horse on the bend and should have waited to the straight. He might not have hit the horse where he did, and the number of strikes would have been reduced accordingly.
Penalty submissions
There is no guideline for this Rule. The Stewards referred to a case last year where there were 3 strikes, and the penalty was $650. Mr Khetoo’s record is clear under this Rule.
Mr Walsh submitted it was the Respondent’s first ride back, the breach was not intentional, and that a warning would suffice.
Reasons for penalty
The strike was not intentional and it is simply further evidence of the difficulties that the tension of raceday riding is causing Mr Khetoo. Despite the fact this is Mr Khetoo’s first breach of this Rule, a warning, as submitted by the Jockey Mentor, is not appropriate for a breach which raises animal welfare concerns.
This matter has been considered in conjunction with the related charge that the Respondent struck the horse 6 times prior to the 100 metres. And the penalty imposed takes into account the submissions and the penalty imposed for that breach, which is a suspension.
Conclusion
Mr Khetoo is fined the sum of $250. As with the related breach, the Adjudicative Committee recommends to the Stewards that the Respondent be directed to again meet with the Rider Skills Review Panel as per the provisions of r 343.
Decision Date: 09/09/2022
Publish Date: 12/09/2022