Taranaki RI 31 December 2025 – R7 – Toni Davies
ID: RIB62449
Animal Name:
WIRE ROPE
Code:
Thoroughbred
Race Date:
31/12/2025
Race Club:
Taranaki Racing Inc
Race Location:
New Plymouth Raceway - Rogan Street, New Plymouth, 4310
Race Number:
R7
Hearing Date:
31/12/2025
Hearing Location:
New Plymouth Racecourse 1 Wogan Street New Plymouth 4310
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Apprentice Jockey Ms Toni Davies suspended 5 NR days.
BACKGROUND
Following the running of Race 7, the ‘Ned de Prix Fashion 24th January 2026’ an Information was lodged alleging a breach of Rule 638(3)(g)(i). The Information read as follows:
‘in that she used her whip excessively in the home straight (8 strikes prior to the 100m).
Rule 638(3)(g)(i) provides (g) a Rider must not (i) except as provided for in (iii)(A) and (iii)(B) of this sub rule, 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);
Ms Davies acknowledged that she understood the Rule, the nature of the charge and confirmed her admission of the breach. Ms Davies was assisted by Ms Kim Clapperton, Apprentice Mentor.
EVIDENCE
Using the available race film, Stewards identified the incident. Between the top of the straight and the 100 metre mark the Respondent is seen to strike her mount on eight occasions. A further four strikes are applied between the 100 metre mark and the finish line. WIRE ROPE won the event. The Respondent agreed with Steward interpretation.
DECISION
As the Respondent admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach to be proved.
SUBMISSIONS ON PENALTY
Stipendiary Steward Ms Kelly Jillings produced the Respondent’s record as it relates to any breach of this Rule within the last six months. There is one noted that being Waverley RC 19 October 2025 (7 strikes prior to the 100 m and 7 after) resulting in a 5 day suspension. The Respondent has had some 212 race day rides in that period. Stewards referred the Adjudicative Committee to the current NZTR Penalty Guide which provides for a starting point of a 5 day suspension 2nd breach 3 additional strikes.
In relation to penalty Ms Davies asked that any suspension imposed be deferred until close of racing on 10th January 2026.
REASONS FOR PENALTY
The breach is clearly identified by film. After due consideration the Adjudicative Committee determined a 5 day suspension was the appropriate sanction. Deferment is granted.
CONCLUSION
The Respondent’s licence to ride in races is suspended for 5 NR days from close of racing on 10th January 2026 up to and including 18th January 2026.
Decision Date: 31/12/2025
Publish Date: 05/01/2026