Taranaki RI 24 March 2023 – R6 – Kate Hercock
ID: RIB17733
Animal Name:
GOBUYIT
Code:
Thoroughbred
Race Date:
24/03/2023
Race Club:
Taranaki Racing Inc
Race Location:
New Plymouth Raceway - Rogan Street, New Plymouth, 4310
Race Number:
R6
Hearing Date:
24/03/2023
Hearing Location:
New Plymouth
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Jockey Kate Hercock is suspended for 2 days and fined $500
Evidence
Following the running of Race 6, the Respondent Ms K Hercock, Rider, admitted a charge alleging excessive whip use prior to the 100 metres.
Rule 638(3)(g)(i) provides that in a Flat Race 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); or
Using the available race films, Mr Goodwin demonstrated that Ms Hercock struck her mount 6 times from the straight entrance to the 100-metre mark.
Ms Hercock had nothing to say in response.
Decision
As the Respondent admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved (Rule 915(1)(d) refers).
Submissions For Penalty
Mr Goodwin produced Ms Hercock’s record which indicated:
10/9/22Â Â 6 strikes – $500
15/10/22Â 6 strikes – 3 days and $500
18/11/22Â Â 6 strikes – 5 days
Stewards submitted a penalty commensurate with the NZTR Revised Penalty Guide for excessive whip use (February 2023).
Pursuant to Rule 1106(2)(b) or Rule 1106(3)(b), Ms Hercock sought a deferment to any proposed suspension in order to fulfil pending riding engagements through until next Saturday April 1st.
Reasons For Penalty
The Penalty Guide starting point for a 4th breach when 1 strike over is a 2 day suspension and a $500 fine.
After considering the film evidence, the submissions and having due regard for the number and frequency of strikes, the Adjudicative Committee determined there are no compelling reasons to depart from the starting point set out in the Penalty Guide.
On that basis, Ms Hercock is suspended for 2 days and fined $500.
Conclusion
Ms Hercock is granted a deferment. Her licence to ride in races is suspended for 2 days from close of racing on Saturday April 1st until close of racing on Wednesday April 5th.
In addition, a fine of $500 is imposed.
Decision Date: 24/03/2023
Publish Date: 27/03/2023