Taranaki RI 31 December 2024 – R5 – Marc Lerner

ID: RIB50167

Respondent(s):
Marc Lerner - Jockey

Applicant:
Neil Goodwin - Stipendiary Steward

Adjudicators:
Tom Castles

Persons Present:
Keith Coppins - Stipendiary Steward, Neil Goodwin - Stipendiary Steward

Information Number:
A17780

Decision Type:
Race Related Charge

Charge:
Used whip above shoulder height

Rule(s):
638(3)(f)(ii) - Contravention whip rule

Plea:
Admitted

Animal Name:
THE ENTERTAINER

Code:
Thoroughbred

Race Date:
31/12/2024

Race Club:
Taranaki Racing Inc

Race Location:
New Plymouth Raceway - Rogan Street, New Plymouth, 4310

Race Number:
R5

Hearing Date:
31/12/2024

Hearing Location:
New Plymouth

Outcome: Proved

Penalty: Jockey Marc Lerner is suspended for 4 days

FACTS

Jockey Marc Lerner admitted a breach of the Whip Rule in that he used his whip above shoulder height.

EVIDENCE

The film of the incident was shown and commented on. It was very obvious that the whip was well above the Rider’s shoulder.

DECISION

As the charge was admitted, it was deemed proved.

SUBMISSIONS ON PENALTY

Stipendiary Steward N Goodwin informed the Adjudicative Committee that this was Jockey Marc Lerner’s fourth breach of this Rule since arriving and riding here. On the three other occasions, he has been fined as per the Guidelines. He has found it hard to adjust to the Whip Rules here after riding in other jurisdictions where different Rules apply.

Because of the number of breaches, he asked for consideration to be given for a period of suspension to be imposed.

Jockey Marc Lerner had little to add, saying he was becoming frustrated and annoyed at not adjusting his riding style.

REASONS FOR PENALTY

In coming to its decision, the Adjudicative Committee took into account, Jockey Marc Lerner’s admittance of the breach. Concern was expressed about the number of breaches, all resulting in fines. It was felt a period of suspension must be imposed this time, hoping that this will allow Jockey Marc Lerner time to come to understand  the Whip Rules.

CONCLUSION

Jockey Marc Lerner was suspended from race riding from the completion of racing on 6/1/025, until completion of racing on 11/1/25 – 4 days including a premier day.

Decision Date: 31/12/2024

Publish Date: 01/01/2025