Riccarton Park – Hororata 25 March 2023 – R6 – Jeeteesh Mudhoo

SUMMARY OF FACTS:

Following the running of Race 6, Jeetesh Mudhoo, admitted a charge alleging excessive whip use (7 times) on his mount, SUMMER FESTIVAL, prior to the 100 metres.

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”. 

SUBMISSIONS:

Chief Stipendiary Steward, John Oatham, pointed out on video replays SUMMER FESTIVAL, ridden by Mr Mudhoo, in second position as the field passed the 400 metre mark. The first strike was inside the 400 metre mark and the following six were before the 100 metre mark.

Mr Mudhoo accepted there were seven clear strikes.

DECISION:

As the breach was admitted, the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Oatham, said that Mr Mudhoo had two relevant prior breaches under this Rule.

• 19 November 2022 at Awapuni where five days was imposed for seven strikes prior to the 100 metres.
• 9 March 2023 at Riccarton where a $500 fine was imposed.

Mr Oatham submitted that the starting point was 5 national riding days in reference to the Penalty Guide. Mr Oatham said there were no aggravating factors.

Mr Mudhoo did not seek a deferment. Mr Walsh accepted the Penalty Guide was clear.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Adjudicative Committee agreed that a penalty in line with the Penalty Guide was appropriate. Accordingly, a 5 days suspension was imposed.

CONCLUSION:

Mr Mudhoo is suspended for 5 national riding days commencing at the close of racing on 25 March 2023 up to and including 5 April 2023.