R Tauranga 7 July 2024 – R6 – Bill Jacobson

BACKGROUND:

Following the running of Race 6, an Information was filed by Stipendiary Steward, Mrs Lauren Selvakumaran, against the Respondent, Class A Jockey Mr Billy Jacobson, alleging that he struck his mount, RUACH, in 2 consecutive strides in the home straight.

The Respondent had endorsed the Information “I do admit a breach of the rule” and he confirmed that he understood the Rule and the nature of the charge.

Mr Jacobson advised the Stewards that he did not wish to be present for the hearing.

Rule 638(3)(g)(ii) provides that in a Flat Race a Rider must not “strike a horse with a whip in consecutive strides at any stage of the race”.

EVIDENCE:

Chief Stipendiary Steward, Mr John Oatham, showed a head-on video replay of the run down the home straight. He pointed out Mr Jacobson’s horse RUACH and identified that the Respondent struck the horse with his whip twice in consecutive strides.

DECISION:

The charge is admitted and is therefore deemed proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mrs Selvakumaran said that the Respondent had one charge under this Rule in the last 6 months, on 24 February 2024. It had resulted in a $500 fine, as it was at that point, the 4th charge under this Rule by Mr Jacobson. The previous three charges had since dropped off.

This breach is therefore a second offence under the Rule. The Penalty Guide starting point is a fine of $150 for a second breach.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The RIB Thoroughbred Racing Penalty Guide (February 2023) suggests a starting point of a fine of $150 for a second offence involving two consecutive strides. There are no relevant aggravating or mitigating factors.

CONCLUSION:

The Respondent, Mr Billy Jacobson, is therefore fined the sum of $150.