Taranaki RI 27 October 2023 – R6 – Johnathan Parkes

Background:

Following the running of Race 6, an Information was lodged alleging a breach of Rule 638(3)(g)(i). Details are as follows:

‘Struck his mount ATA RANGI seven times prior to the 100 metre mark with a further four strikes inside the final 100 metres’.

Mr Parkes confirmed that he understood the Rule and admitted the breach.

Rule 638(3)(g)(i) provides that in a Flat Race a Rider must not:

‘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)’ where it is not a contravention of this rule if

‘ a Rider strikes a horse seven times prior to the 100 metre mark, provided that the Rider does not strike the horse more than 3 times after the 100 metre mark‘

Evidence:

Stewards, using available film were able to demonstrate that Mr Parkes struck his mount on 3 occasions just prior to the turn and on 4 additional occasions between the top of the straight and the 100 metre mark. He then in turn struck his mount 4 times between the 100 metre mark and the finish line.

Mr Parkes did not dispute the count.

Decision:

As the Respondent admitted the breach the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved.

Submissions for Penalty:

Stewards advised that Mr Parkes has had one breach of this Rule within the last six months namely Hawkes Bay RI 29 April 2023. The Adjudicative Committee were referred to the current NZTR Penalty Guide.

Reasons for Penalty:

The Penalty Guide starting point for a second breach involving two additional strikes is a fine of $500. Any mitigation in penalty as a result of record ie: the last breach being only two days inside the six months reference period is offset given that ATA RANGI won the Race by a relatively small margin. As such a fine of $500 is deemed appropriate.

Conclusion:

Jockey, Mr J Parkes is fined $500.