Rangiora HRC 17 February 2024 – R2 – Philippa Wakelin

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 2, Stipendiary Steward Mr Paul Williams presented an Information alleging a breach of Rule 869(2) by Open Driver Miss Philippa Wakelin.

Miss Wakelin stated she was conversant with the Rule, the Charge and confirmed she did admit the breach.

Rule 869(2) provides:

For the purposes clause 3.3 a driver shall be deemed to have used the whip in an unapproved manner in the following circumstances which are not exclusive: 3.4.1 If the whip is applied other than as permitted in clause 3.1. 3.4.2 If the whip is applied excessively, continuously, or without allowing the horse time to respond.

Mr Williams played the final straight video to identify Miss Wakelin trailing the leader. He said Stewards had no problem with Miss Wakelin’s drive until the 150m. He said from this point, Stewards have counted 18 strikes produced in a rapid-fire motion. Mr Williams said there were no discernible pauses, but added the strikes were applied with minimal force.

Miss Wakelin said after viewing the video, she agreed the strikes were too continuous.

DECISION:

The Respondent having admitted the breach, the charge was deemed to be proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Williams stated Miss Wakelin has one previous breach on her record at Methven on 28 January 2024. Stewards assess this breach as low range but a second breach, and alluded to the Penalty Guidelines as appropriate in this case.

Miss Wakelin made no submissions on Penalty.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Penalty Guidelines provide a 3-day suspension starting point for a second breach of this Rule at low level.

The Adjudicative Committee agrees this breach is at low-range and can see no factors to depart from the Guidelines in the circumstances of this case.

CONCLUSION:

Open Driver Miss Philippa Wakelin’s Licence to drive in races is suspended from the conclusion of racing today, up to and including racing on 29 February 2024.