Riccarton Park – Banks Peninsula RC 4 February 2026 – R11 (heard 7 February 2026 at Wingatui)- Leah Hemi
ID: RIB63649
Animal Name:
PROFESSIONAL LAD
Code:
Thoroughbred
Race Date:
04/02/2026
Race Club:
Banks Peninsula Racing Club
Race Location:
Riccarton Park - 165 Racecourse Road, Christchurch,
Race Number:
R11
Hearing Date:
07/02/2026
Hearing Location:
Dunedin
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Jockey Leah Hemi is fined $300
Miss Haley alleged that in Race 11, Ms Hemi struck her mount PROFESSIONAL LAD 7 times prior to the 100 metres, with a further 5 strikes inside the final 100 metres.
Mr Davidson demonstrated on the videos that the Respondent was racing midfield in the centre of the track as the field exited the home bend. She made good ground, and used her whip 7 times prior to the 100 metres. There were a further 5 strikes after the 100 metres.
Ms Hemi agreed with the Stewards’ count. She commented that PROFESSIONAL LAD was the favourite and was a very green horse. It had run around a bit and had needed encouragement. Once the horse had hit the front, she was concerned it would knock off.
Decision
As Ms Hemi has admitted the breach, it is found to be proved.
Submissions as to Penalty
Miss Haley produced the Respondent’s record, which evidenced that it was clear having regard to the reset period. She commented a small uplift from the starting point in the Penalty Guide was appropriate, as PROFESSIONAL LAD had won the race.
Ms Hemi confirmed her record.
Reasons for Penalty
The Penalty Guide provides a starting point of $250 for a 1st breach where the count is 7 strikes. The appropriate penalty having regard to record, number of strikes, and the fact the Respondent’s mount finished 1st, is a fine of $300.
Conclusion
Ms Hemi is fined the sum of $300.
Decision Date: 07/02/2026
Publish Date: 10/02/2026