Riccarton Park – Canterbury JC 3 September 2022 – R6 – Megan Taylor

BACKGROUND:

Following the running of Race 6, Christchurch Casino SI Racing Awards 16 September Rating 65, the Respondent, Apprentice Jockey Megan Taylor, admitted a charge alleging excessive whip use (7 times) on her mount, HEY MICKEY, prior to the 100 metres.

Apprentice Jockey Mentor, David Walsh, was present to assist.

Rule 638(3)(g)(i) provides that “in a Flat Race, a Rider must not strike a horse with a whip more than 5 times prior to the 100-metre mark (other than in a slapping motion down the shoulder with the whip hand remaining on the reins”.

EVIDENCE:

Using the available video replays, Chief Stipendiary Steward, John Oatham, pointed out HEY MICKEY, ridden by the Respondent, racing wide near the lead as the field turned into the home straight. The first of the 7 alleged strikes was shortly after entering the home straight, Mr Oatham said, and there were 6 more prior to the 100 metres.

Neither the Respondent nor Mr Walsh had any comment to make in relation to the video replays.

DECISION:

As the Respondent admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee found the breach proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Chief Stipendiary Steward, John Oatham, said that Ms Taylor had one previous breach of the Rule in the past 6 months – at Riccarton on 25 June last (a formal warning). The present breach is therefore deemed to be a second breach and, for 2 additional strikes, the Penalty Guide suggests fine of $500. Stewards were seeking a fine of that amount, he said.

Once again, neither the Respondent nor Mr Walsh had any submissions to make in relation to that penalty submission.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Respondent has used her whip in two additional strikes. The NZTR Revised Penalty Guidelines suggest a starting point of a $500 fine. There are no relevant aggravating or mitigating factors to consider. HEY MICKEY finished in 9th placing, almost 8 lengths from the winner.

CONCLUSION:

The Respondent, Class B Rider Megan Taylor, was fined $500.