Otaki-Maori RC 9 February 2025 – R5 – Harry Grace

Evidence:

Following the running of Race 5, the “Cavallo Farms & Chris Rutten Bloodstock Handicap”, Mr Goodwin presented an Information charging Mr Grace, the Rider of “LATRELLE” with a breach of Rule 638(3)(g)(i) – the Whip Rule.

It was alleged that he “used his whip excessively in the home straight prior to the 100 metres mark”.

Mr Grace admitted the charge.

The race films depicted that when mounting a strong run in the home straight, “LATRELLE” was struck by Mr Grace’s use of his whip 7 times prior to the 100 metres mark.  Under the present Rule, he would not have committed a breach of the “Whip Rule” if he had struck his mount no more than 3 times after that 100 metres mark.  But he in fact struck it a further 5 times to finish in close up 2nd.  Accordingly, his use of the whip in these circumstances was to the level of 2 additional non permitted strikes.

Decision:

As the charge was admitted, it was deemed proved.

Submissions for Penalty:

Mr Grace had one previous breach of this Whip Rule over the relevant period.  In mitigation, he said he had been very busy riding in both New Zealand and Australia over recent months without blemish.

Reasons for Penalty:

The Adjudicative Committee sees no reason to depart from the Penalty Guidelines, there being no relevant aggravating or mitigating features.

Conclusion:

Mr Grace is fined $500.