Otaki-Maori RC 26 December 2022 – R1 – Lemmy Douglas

Evidence:

Following the running of Race 1, the Respondent, Mr L Douglas admitted a charge of careless riding which was filed pursuant to Rule 638(1)(d).  The Information alleged that L Douglas (LIVINONTHE EDGE) allowed his mount to shift inwards when not clear of RUFFHOUSE ROSIE (S O’Malley) which was checked.

Mr Douglas acknowledged he understood the Rule and confirmed his admission of the breach. Apprentice Mentor Ms K Clapperton was present to assist.

Rule 638(1) (d) provides: A Rider shall not ride a horse in a manner which the Judicial Committee considers to be careless.

Using the available Race films Stipendiary Steward, Mr K Coppins demonstrated the incident and identified the horses and Riders concerned.

Mr Goodwin said that soon after turning the corner for home LIVINONTHE EDGE could be seen wanting to shift inwards. Mr Douglas allowed his mount to cross in front of Mr Mudhoo’s mount and then shifted in further into the line of Miss O’Malley. At no stage did he take remedial action.

Mr Douglas declined to comment. Ms Clapperton said she expected a higher standard (of riding) from the Apprentice Riders and Mr Douglas knew he needed to do better.

Decision:

As the Respondent admitted the breach the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved

Submission for Penalty:

Mr Goodwin produced Mr Douglas’ riding record which indicated one previous breach for careless riding (8/4/22) in the last 12 months.

Mr Douglas has had 221 rides in the past 12 months.

Stewards assessed the level of carelessness to be in the low range.

Mr Douglas advised that he had riding engagements tomorrow at Woodville but nothing after that.

Reasons for Penalty:

After considering all submissions the Adjudicative Committee determined Mr Douglas’ carelessness to be slightly above low range. He moved inwards in front of two horses being marginally clear of the first and not clear of the second. Although he dictated the running line of Ms O’Malley the Stewards did not believe it cost her a higher placing.

Mr Douglas’ riding record is very good. Taking into account all factors, including his admission of the breach a 4-day suspension was considered appropriate.

Conclusion – Penalty:

Mr Douglas’ Licence to ride in races is suspended for a period of 4 days commencing after racing on Tuesday December 27^th and concluding after racing on Sunday January 1^st, 2023.