Taranaki RI 16 August 2025 – R2 – Sima Mxothwa

Background

Following the running of Race 2, the Respondent Mr Sima Mxothwa Apprentice Rider, admitted a charge alleging he used his whip with his arm above shoulder height in the final straight on his mount EXPLOSIVE IMPACT.

Rule 638(3)(f)(ii) provides:

(f) A Rider must not use his or her whip:

(ii) using an action that raises the Rider’s arm above shoulder height.

The Respondent confirmed to the Adjudicative Committee that he understood the Rule and admitted the breach. Apprentice Mentor Ms K Clapperton was present to assist.

Evidence:

Using available videos, the Stewards identified the incident. In the home straight, Mr Mxothwa was observed striking his mount approximately four times, using the whip in accordance with the Rules. However, shortly after, he raised his arm above shoulder height, as if leading into a much stronger strike. The manner in which he used his whip on this occasion, constituted a breach of the Rule. Ms Clapperton explained that when Mr Mxothwa is riding under pressure, he unfortunately tends to do this.

His mount finished second in the race.

Decision:

As the Respondent admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee found the breach proved.

Submissions for Penalty:

Stewards outlined the Respondent’s record. This is his fourth breach of this Rule, within the last six months:

10/6/25  5 days

26/3/25  $400 fine

28/3/25  $350 fine

Mr Goodwin submitted that a period of suspension was appropriate given Mr Mxothwa’s record, adding that referral back to the Rider Skills Review Panel would also follow. He noted that the Respondent had 91 rides in the last 12 months.

Ms Clapperton pointed out that Mr Mxothwa’s recent breaches were generally only one strike, but his overall record is poor. Mr Mxothwa explained that after his most recent breach, he had met with the Rider Skills Review Panel via Teams. These experienced former Jockeys advised him to slow his riding tempo, reduce his reliance on the whip, and instead concentrate on maintaining his mount’s balance. They also recommended that he switch to using the whip in his right hand, given his natural strength with the left. In addition, Mr Mxothwa has attended a session with a sports psychologist, who advised he should return for further consultation once he has had more race riding experience.

Mr Mxothwa requested that the Adjudicative Committee considers a fine in place of a suspension.

Reasons for Penalty:

The NZTR Penalty Guide provides for a $250 fine as the starting point for a first breach of the Rule, and this was the penalty imposed for Mr Mxothwa’s first two breaches. He has continued to breach the Rule and has now built up a poor record in this regard. It is evident that increased fines and a five‑day suspension, have not served as effective deterrents.  Despite education and support, his behaviour has not materially improved, particularly in high‑pressure situations.

Accordingly, the Adjudicative Committee considers a significant uplift in penalty to be appropriate. A 7‑day suspension of his Licence to ride is imposed. Deferment of the suspension is granted, to allow Mr Mxothwa to meet existing riding commitments. It is also noted that Stewards will refer him again to the NZTR Rider Skills Review Panel for further guidance and support. Mr Mxothwa has yet to return to the sports psychologist and is strongly encouraged to do so.

Conclusion:

Mr Mxothwa’s Licence to ride in races is suspended for 7 national riding days, from the close of racing on Saturday 23rd August 2025, up to and including racing on Friday 29th August, 2025.