Taranaki RI 4 December 2025 – R2 – Sima Mxothwa

Background:

Following the running of Race 2, the ‘Bunnings New Plymouth Maiden 1200’, an Information was lodged alleging a breach of Rule 638(1)(d). Details are as follows:

‘in that S Mxothwa permitted his mount ‘Ivy Time’ to shift outwards when not sufficiently clear of ‘Priovita’ which was checked near to 50 metres’ 

Rule 638(1)(d) provides:

(1) A Rider shall not ride a horse in a manner which the Adjudicative Committee considers to be:

(d) careless.

The Respondent confirmed that he understood the Rule and admitted the breach. This was endorsed by Ms Clapperton.

Evidence:

Using available film, Stewards identified the incident and horses involved. Well into the straight, IVY TIME is positioned against the fence behind SEE YOU IN BEIJING (C Dell), with this horse having BELLES BOOM (C Grylls) to it’s outside. The Respondent initially looks to improve into that gap then available between these two horse. However, when this gaps narrows he, in reaction, looks to shift out and around these runners. When moving, he is not sufficiently clear of PRIOVITA (G ROOKE), who is to his outside. As a result of the outward shift, PRIOVITA is seen to suffer a check.

Decision:

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

Submissions for Penalty:

Stewards outlined the Respondent’s record, as it relates to any breach of this particular Rule within the 12-month reset period. There are two noted, namely Waverley RC 28/2/2025 (low to mid range) – 5 day suspension and Taranaki RI 16/8/2025 (low to mid range) – 7 day suspension. He has had 96 rides in this period. It was contended that the carelessness sat low range, with the Adjudicative Committee referred to the current NZTR Penalty Guide. Mr Mxothwa advised that any suspension imposed could take effect immediately.

Reason for Penalty:

The incident is satisfactorily identified through film. The Respondent was not sufficiently clear when looking to moving outward, with this action causing a material check to PRIOVITA. The affected horse was under pressure at the time, however, it could be contended that the check cost this horse 4th placing.

The Adjudicative Committee was satisfied that the degree of carelessness sat low range.  The current NZTR Penalty Guide provides a starting point for low-range careless at a 5-day suspension. Reflecting upon record, along with Jockey status as a relatively inexperienced Apprentice, this was deemed the appropriate penalty.

Conclusion:

The Respondent’s Licence to ride in races is suspended for 5 NR days, from the close of racing on 4 December 2025, up to and including 11 December 2025.