Waikato RC 18 December 2021 – R5 – Rahul Beemud

Evidence

Following the running of Race 5, the Respondent Apprentice Rider Rahul Beemud admitted two charges; the first alleging excessive whip use prior to the 100 metres; and the second alleging that he failed to ride his mount out to the finish.

Apprentice Mentor Mr Harris was present to assist.

Charge 1

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

Particulars of the charge are that the Respondent used his whip on VITTACHI excessively prior to the 100 metres.

Summary of Facts

Using the available race films Stipendiary Steward Mr Williamson demonstrated that the Respondent struck his mount 6 times from the straight entrance to the 100-metre mark.  He pointed out that at the time his mount was wide on the track challenging for the lead and eventually finished in sixth place.

In response the Respondent offered no explanation.

Charge 2

Rule 636(1)(b) provides that:

(b) being the Rider of a horse in a Race, must take all reasonable and permissible measures throughout the Race to ensure that his horse is given full opportunity to win the Race or to obtain the best possible finishing place.

Particulars of the charge are that the Respondent failed to ride his mount (VITTACHI) out fully to the finish when there was a reasonable chance of VITTACHI finishing in a better position.

Summary of Facts

Using the available race films Mr Williamson demonstrated that the Respondent was in 5th place when he relaxed and sat up 2 ½ strides from the finish.  As a result, he was passed by another horse and finished in 6th place, beaten a nose for 5th place.

Mr Williamson said the stake money difference between 5th and 6th placing was $350.

In response, on behalf of the Respondent, Mr Harris said he needs to be more aware of the finish line and the other horses around him near the finish.  He added that the Respondent thought his mount had comes to the end of its run and that’s why he eased up.

Decision

As the Respondent admitted both breaches the Adjudicative Committee finds them proved.

Submissions For Penalty

With regards to Charge No 1, Mr Williamson produced the Respondent’s record which indicated two previous whip breaches; namely:

20/11/21 fined $250

11/12/21 fined $500

On the basis this is the Respondent’s third whip breach, Stewards submitted a 5-day suspension.

With regards to Charge No 2, Mr Williamson said the Respondent has a clear record.  He said previous breaches for similar offending have resulted in fines somewhere between $150 and $200.

On behalf of the Respondent, Mr Harris submitted that he is indentured to Trainers Team Rogerson who have been very patient in coaching and developing him and as a result he has four winning rides in the past few weeks.  They said that he is likely to have more riding opportunities in the immediate future.

The Respondent sought a 10-day deferment to any proposed suspension in order to fulfil riding engagements at upcoming race meetings prior to and after Christmas.

Reasons For Penalty

Charge 1

The Penalty Guide starting point for a 3rd whip offence is a 5 National Day suspension plus 50% of Jockey share of stake.

After considering the film evidence, the submissions and having due regard for the number and frequency of strikes, the Adjudicative Committee determined there are compelling reasons to depart from the starting point set out in the Penalty Guide.

On that basis, as this is the Respondent’s 3rd breach, a suspension of 5 days is imposed. The Respondent’s request for a deferment is granted.

Charge 2

The Penalty Guide starting point for failing to ride out to the end of the race resulting in missing 5th place is a fine of $300.

After considering the film evidence and the submissions the Adjudicative Committee determined a fine of $200 to be an appropriate penalty.  This takes into account the Respondent’s status as a relatively inexperienced Apprentice Rider.

Conclusion

Charge 1 – The Respondent is granted a 10-day deferment. His Licence to ride in races is suspended for 5 days from 29 December 2021 until 3 January 2021.

Charge 2 – The Respondent is fined $200.