Riccarton Park – Canterbury JC 23 August 2026 – R9 – Ohara Najib

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 9, Stipendiary Steward Mrs Rebecca Haley presented an Information alleging a breach of Rule 638(1)(d) by Apprentice Rider Mr Ohara Najib.

Mr Najib stated he was conversant with the Rule and Charge and confirmed he admitted the breach. Mr Najib was assisted at the hearing by Senior Rider Miss Kylie Williams.

Chief Stipendiary Steward Mr John Oatham identified Mr Najib on the race film passing the 1000m riding FROSBIE towards the rear of the field and one off the rail. To his inside was CAPTAIN ROY (T Moodley) and to his outside was LIGHT OF PLUTUS (K Mudhoo). The video showed LIGHT OF PLUTUS shift inwards, slightly dictating Mr Najib, however, instead of steadying his horse, he allowed it to continue the movement inwards, checking CAPTAIN ROY when only a bare length clear.

Mr Najib made no submissions.

Miss Williams said there was mitigation in relation to the inwards movement of LIGHT OF PLUTUS, but conceded Mr Najib needed to have waited for just another stride or two, before crossing to the rail.

DECISION:

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

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mrs Haley stated Mr Najib has 2 previous breaches of the Rule on his record.

21/12/25   Tapanui – 4 days

19/4/26     Southland – 4 days

Mrs Haley said Mr Najib is a very busy Apprentice Rider, having 255 rides in the last 12 months.

Mrs Haley said Stewards viewed the breach to be low range.

Mr Najib requested to start any suspension immediately.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Penalty Guidelines provide a 5-day starting point for a low-range breach of the Careless Riding Rule.

Mr Najib’s previous suspensions are on par for a busy Rider.

Mr Najib has admitted the charge, this is a low range breach, however, any suspension must include a South Island race day and the Adjudicative Committee finds a six-day suspension will cover this.

CONCLUSION:

Apprentice Rider Mr Ohara Najib is suspended from the conclusion of racing today, up to and including racing on 1 August 2026.