Southland RC 17 November 2021 – R1 – Jason Laking

EVIDENCE:

After the conclusion of Race 1, The Ascot Park Hotel Handicap Information A14153 was lodged by Chief Stipendiary Steward, Mr J Oatham alleging that Jockey, J Laking permitted his mount (THE MOLE) to shift ground inwards when not sufficiently clear, checking a trailing runner (WESTERN DREAM) B May passing the 600m.

Mr Laking was present at the hearing and confirmed he understood the Rule and also that he admitted the breach.

The Rule reads 638(1(d): A rider shall not ride a horse in a manner which is considered to be careless.

SUBMISSIONS:

Mr Oatham asked Stipendiary Steward, Miss Haley to demonstrate on the various video footage of THE MOLE moving ground inwards when not a least a length clear of the trailing horse WESTERN DREAM (B May), around the 600m mark,  Miss Haley highlighted the inwards movement and the resultant check to WESTERN DREAM.

Mr Laking stated he made a simple error of judgement and had moved inwards too quickly and if he waited a little longer he would have been okay.

REASON FOR DECISION:

As the Respondent, Mr Laking, admitted the breach the Committee finds the breach proved.

SUBMISSION FOR PENALTY:

Mr Oatham produced Mr Laking’s recent riding record stating that Mr Laking had no previous breaches under this Rule in the past 12 months. Mr Oatham confirmed Mr Laking was a busy rider and he believed the breach to be mid-range.  A starting point of 7 national riding days suspension he believed may be appropriate in this instance.

Mr Laking had no submissions on penalty.

REASON FOR PENALTY:

After considering the submissions the Committee determined that the Respondent’s carelessness to be mid-range and adopted a 7 day suspension as a starting point, this conforms with the NZTR Penalty Guideline as from 1 September 2021.

Mr Laking’s excellent riding record and admittance of the breach resulted 1 day reduction from the 7 day starting point.

CONCLUSIONS:

Mr Laking’s Licence to ride is suspended for a period of 6 national riding days commencing at the conclusion of riding on Wednesday, 17 November 2021 until the conclusion of racing on Wednesday, 1 December 2021.