Riccarton Park – Canterbury JC 2 August 2025 – R5 – Ellie Callwood

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race, Chief Stipendiary Steward Mr John Oatham presented an Information alleging a breach of Rule 638(5)(b) by Jockey Miss Ellie Callwood.

Miss Callwood stated she understood the Rule and Charge and confirmed her admission of the breach.

(5) A Rider in a Jumping Race or Trial must retire his or her horse from a Race or Trial immediately if: (b) the horse is not in contention and/or fatigued.

Mr Oatham played the video of the field passing approximately the 2000m, to identify Miss Callwood riding THE ANARCHIST, who at this juncture, was a long distance behind the second to last horse. Mr Oatham stopped the video at the 700m, to show THE ANARCHIST 100m behind the second last horse and not gaining any ground, clearly out of contention.

Mr Oatham said the Stewards’ concern was, from this point, Miss Callwood has continued riding her horse over the last two jumps and failed to prioritise the safety and wellbeing of her horse.

Miss Callwood said her horse jumped and felt better on the second circuit and her instructions from the Trainer were not to pull up and to finish the race. She said on reflection, it was a misguided decision to finish the race.

DECISION:

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

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Oatham outlined the most recent and relevant cases of breaches of this Rule. He said it is a relatively new Rule and was first breached last year. He said fines between $350 and $500 for similar circumstances as this, were imposed.

Mr Oatham reiterated the Rule is there to protect the safety of horses and the continuation of jumping racing in New Zealand.

Miss Callwood made no submissions on Penalty.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

Rider instructions are obviously an important part of the mindset of Riders; however, the Rules of Racing must be prioritised. Miss Callwood should have realised she was well out of contention and should have been prompted to retire her horse, when the second to last horse in front of her, wasn’t asked to jump the last fence.

After considering all factors, the Adjudicative Committee finds a $450 fine an appropriate Penalty.

CONCLUSION:

Jockey Miss Ellie Callwood is fined $450.