Riccarton Park – Riccarton Turf 3 May 2025 – R6 – Toni Davies
ID: RIB54753
Animal Name:
SPARTAN
Code:
Thoroughbred
Race Date:
03/05/2025
Race Club:
Canterbury Jockey Club
Race Location:
Riccarton Park - 165 Racecourse Road, Christchurch,
Race Number:
R6
Hearing Date:
03/05/2025
Hearing Location:
Riccarton Park
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Apprentice Rider Toni Davies is fined $300
EVIDENCE:
Following the running of Race 6, Chief Stipendiary Steward Mr John Oatham presented an Information alleging a breach of Rule 638(3)(g)(i) by Apprentice Jockey Miss Toni Davies.
Miss Davies stated she had a good understanding of the Rule and confirmed she admitted the breach.
Miss Davies was assisted at the hearing by Apprentice Mentor Mr Jason Laking.
Rule 638(3)(g) provides that, in a Flat Race or Trial, a Rider must not:
(i) 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).
The Rule provides the following exemption:
(iii) it shall not be a contravention of (i) of this sub-Rule if:
(B) a Rider strikes a horse 7 times prior to the 100-metre mark, provided that the Rider does not strike the horse more than 3 times after the 100-metre mark.
Mr Oatham played the video of the final 300m of the race and identified Miss Davies leading the field on the rail. Mr Oatham counted 7 strikes prior to the 100m and another 5 inside the final 100m.
Miss Davies and Mr Laking made no submissions.
DECISION:
The Respondent having admitted the breach, the charge was deemed to be proved.
SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:
Mr Oatham said Miss Davies has a clear record under the Rule. He said the aggravating factor was Miss Davies has won the race in a reasonably tight finish. He said an increase in the fine would be expected.
Miss Davies and Mr Laking made no submissions on Penalty.
REASONS FOR PENALTY:
The Penalty Guidelines provide a $250 fine for a first offence with 2 additional strikes.
Miss Davies has won the race, which is an aggravating factor and an uplift from the starting point is warranted.
The Adjudicative Committee acknowledges Miss Davies’ excellent record and considering her status as an Apprentice Rider, find a $50 increase to be appropriate in the circumstances of this breach.
CONCLUSION:
Apprentice Rider Miss Toni Davies is fined $300.
Decision Date: 03/05/2025
Publish Date: 06/05/2025