Riverton RC 8 April 2023 – R7 – Corey Campbell

BACKGROUND

Following the running of Race 7, the Carriers Arms Hotel Riverton Cup, Jockey Corey Campbell admitted a charge that as the Rider of ASATHOUGHT in the Race, he struck his mount 6 times prior to the last 100 metres.

Rule 638(3) provides:-

(g) Subject to the other requirements this rule 638(3) , in a flat race or trial (including jump outs and/ or tests for certification purposes), a rider must not:

(i) strike a horse with a whip more than 5 times prior to the 100metre mark (other than in a slapping motion down the shoulder with the whip hand remaining on the reins).

In all breaches of Whip Rules in any Black Type race, the starting point of a fine will be the amount equal to 50% of the Jockey’s share of the stake earned by the amount or starting point on the whip penalty table whichever is greater and may be in any addition to any suspension imposed as above.

When considering an appropriate penalty a Rider’s whip record proceeding 6 months will be taken into account.

EVIDENCE

Stipendiary Steward, Miss Rebecca Hayley showed the video replays of the final 400 metres of the Race. She pointed out ASATHOUGHT, ridden by the Respondent, racing handy to the pace at the top of the straight. She also pointed out the Respondent commenced using his whip from that point on and used it on a total of 6 occasions in the run to the 100 metres, finishing in first place.

The Respondent accepted the account of 6 strikes, alleged by Mr Davidson and said that he had simply lost count.

DECISION

The charge is admitted and is therefore deemed proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY

Mr Davidson said that Mr Campbell had a warning for a first offence on the 28/12/2022, therefore this is a second offence. As this was a Black Type race the Penalty Guide requires a penalty of 50% of the Jockey’s stake .

In this case the winning fee is just over $1800 and he suggested a sum of $900 would be appropriate.

The Respondent said the fine was very hefty but he understood the provisions of the Rule.

REASONS FOR PENALTY

The Adjudicative Committee noted the RIB Thoroughbred Racing Penalty Guide (February 2023) starting point of a 50% of the winning riding fee in a Black Type race.

Mr Campbell has made an error of judgement and unfortunately, given the lack of race riding opportunities in the South Island , the penalty may be seen as excessive however it is a Black Type race with generous winning riding fees and no discretion available.

CONCLUSION

The Respondent, Jockey Corey Campbell is fined the sum of $900.