South Canterbury RC 28 December 2024 – R4 – Abdul Najib

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 4, Stipendiary Steward Mr Mark Davidson presented an Information alleging a breach of Rule 638(3)(f)(iii) by Apprentice Jockey Mr Abdul Najib.

Mr Najib stated he was conversant with the Rule and the Charge and confirmed he did admit the breach.

Mr Najib was assisted at the hearing by Trainer Mr Michael Pitman.

Mr Davidson identified Mr Najib (BLUE GODDESS) racing at the rear of the field approaching the 250m. Mr Davidson pointed to Mr Najib strike his horse three times, when he said there was no chance of finishing in the first ten placings, let alone the first five. He said the Rule states a horse can be tried with the whip, but when it is obvious there is no chance of finishing in the placings, it becomes unacceptable.

Mr Pitman and Mr Najib made no submissions.

DECISION:

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

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Davidson stated Mr Najib has a warning under the Rule. He said a fine commensurate with the Guidelines would be appropriate.

Mr Pitman said a fine of $100 would be sufficient for an Apprentice Rider.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Penalty Guidelines provide a $300 fine starting point for a breach of this Rule.

Mr Najib has admitted the breach, his first under this Rule, and the Adjudicative Committee, with consideration of his Apprentice status, finds the appropriate sanction is a $250 fine.

CONCLUSION:

Apprentice Jockey Mr Abdul Najib is fined $250.