Waikato RC 26 November 2022 – R6 – Ciel Butler
ID: RIB13454
Animal Name:
COVENTINA BAY
Code:
Thoroughbred
Race Date:
26/11/2022
Race Club:
Waikato Racing Club
Race Location:
Te Rapa Racecourse - Te Rapa Road, Hamilton, 3200
Race Number:
R6
Hearing Date:
26/11/2022
Hearing Location:
Te Rapa Racecourse
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Apprentice Jockey Ciel Butler is fined $250
Evidence:
Following the running of Race 6, Information A18058 was lodged alleging the Respondent, Apprentice Rider Ms Ciel Butler, struck her mount, COVENTINA BAY, six times prior to the 100-metre mark.
Ms Butler confirmed to the Adjudicative Committee that she admitted the breach and was assisted at the hearing by Mr N Harris (Rider Mentor).
Rule 638(3)(g)(i) provides that 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)”
Using available film, Senior Stipendiary Steward Mr Jones demonstrated that COVENTINA BAY was racing back in the field entering the home straight. He pointed out, that from the straight entrance to the 100-metre mark, Ms Butler struck her mount six times.
Both Ms Butler and Mr Harris agreed with the number of strikes.
Decision:
As the Respondent admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved.
Submissions for Penalty:
Mr Jones presented the Respondent’s record which indicated one previous breach of this Rule on 17 October 2022, which resulted in a warning. On that basis, he said that this breach is her second within the 6-month reset period.
Ms Butler has had 39 raceday rides.
Mr Jones submitted that Guidelines provide for a $250 fine for a second breach.
Mr Harris submitted that Ms Butler was riding the race favourite and it is the first time she has ridden at Te Rapa. He said all of which placed a “bit of pressure” on her, but he did not offer these factors as an excuse for the breach.
Reasons for Penalty:
Current Penalty Guidelines provide for a fine of $250 for a second breach in circumstances of one additional strike. There are no aggravating factors to consider. Accordingly, the Adjudicative Committee found no reason to depart from this Guideline.
Conclusion:
The Respondent Ms Butler is fined $250.
Decision Date: 26/11/2022
Publish Date: 28/11/2022