Otaki-Māori RC 4 January 2023 – R8 – Vikas Jalalkuncha

Following the running of Race 8, Information A17335 was lodged alleging the Respondent, Class A Rider, Mr V Jalalkuncha used his whip 7 times prior to the 100 metres.

Rule 639(3)(g)(i) provides that a rider must not:

“Strike a horse with a whip more than 5 times prior to the 100-metre mark (other than in a slapping motion down the shoulder with the whip hand remaining on the reins)”

Mr Jalalkuncha confirmed to the Adjudicative Committee that he understood the Rule and admitted the breach.

Using the Race films Stewards demonstrated that Mr Jalalkuncha struck his mount 7 times from the straight entrance to the 100-metre mark.

Mr Jalalkuncha agreed with the number of strikes explaining he made an error differentiating between the 100 and 200m marks on the fence.

Decision:

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

Submissions for Penalty:

Mr Goodwin produced Mr Jalalkuncha’s record:

1/7/22 – 6 strikes – warning

7/8/22 – 7 strikes – $500

28/8/22 – 8 strikes – 5 day suspension

15/9/22 – 7 strikes – 6 day suspension

He said Mr Jalalkuncha does not get a lot of rides and had failed to come to grip with New Zealand’s Whip Regulations.

Mr Jalalkuncha did not seek a deferment to any proposed suspension.

Reasons for Penalty:

Mr Jalalkuncha began raceday riding in New Zealand in June last year after previously holding a Trackwork Rider’s License for three years. In these seven months he has had 23 raceday rides and breached Whip Rules five times – 4 times within the last 6 months.

Penalty Guidelines provide for a 5 (plus) day suspension for a fourth breach in circumstances of two additional strikes. In assessing penalty, pursuant to Rule 920 the Adjudicative Committee took into account Mr Jalalkuncha’s concerning record with a high ratio of rides to whip offences.

Accordingly, after consideration of the facts an 8 day suspension is imposed. His continuing breaching of the Whip Rules suggest he needs additional and immediate help to enable him to ride within the Rules.

The Adjudicative Committee recommended the Stewards arrange for Mr Jalalkuncha to meet with either the Rider Skills Review Panel, the Central Districts Riding Mentor, or a Senior Rider prior to him returning to raceday riding.

Conclusion:

Mr Jalalkuncha’s License to ride in races is suspended for 8 days from the conclusion of racing today Wednesday, 4 January until the conclusion of racing on 14 January 2023.