Racing Te Aroha – 5 July 2026 – R2 – Joe Nishizuka

Background:

Following the running of Race 2, Senior Stipendiary Steward Mr A Dooley filed an Information alleging Apprentice Rider, Joe Nishizuka, breached Rule 638(3)(g)(i) in that he struck his mount COMPULSION eight times prior to the 100 metres.

Mr Nishizuka admitted the breach and was assisted at the hearing by Mr Brosnan.

Evidence:

Using the available race films of the home straight, the Stewards identified Mr Nishizuka’s mount COMPULSION.  It was pointed out that after entering the final straight, Mr Nishizuka struck his mount 8 times prior to the 100m mark and once within the final 100m – nine in total. COMPULSION ran 4th in the race.

Mr Nishizuka agreed with the number of strikes and had nothing further to add.

Decision:

As the charge was admitted, it was deemed proven.

Submissions for Penalty:

The Stewards advised that Mr Nishizuka had a one previous charge under this Rule in the reset period.  This was at an Auckland Thoroughbred Race meeting at Pukekohe on 1 April where he had also struck his horse 8 times before the 100 metres. He had been fined $400 on that occasion.

The Penalty Guide starting point for a second offence of 3 additional strikes has a starting point of a 5 day suspension (national days). Mr Dooley saw no reason to deviate from the penalty guide in this case.

Mr Nishizuka and Mr Brosnan had no comment to make on penalty.

Reasons for Penalty:

After considering the film evidence, the submissions and having due regard to the number of strikes, the Adjudicative Committee determined that there were no aggravating factors and the penalty guide starting point was an appropriate penalty.

Conclusion:

Mr Nishizuka is suspended for 5 national race days. Mr Nishizuka sought and was granted a deferment so he could complete riding engagements until after racing on Sunday 12 July. The 5 day suspension will therefore commence after the conclusion of racing on Sunday 12 July and conclude after racing on Wednesday 22 July (5 national riding days).