Waikato TR 13 April 2025 – R5 – Joe Doyle

Evidence

Following the running of Race 5, the Respondent Class A Rider Joe Doyle admitted a charge alleging excessive whip use prior to the 100 metres. It was alleged that Mr Doyle struck his mount 7 times prior to the 100 metres and another 4 strikes inside the 100 metres.

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

Using the available race films, Mr Oatham demonstrated that the Respondent struck his mount GIGI 7 times from the straight entrance to the 100-metre mark. He pointed out that over the concluding 100 metres, he struck his mount a further 4 times.

In response, Mr Doyle said that he miscounted the number of strikes.

Decision

As Mr Doyle admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved.

Submissions for Penalty

Mr Oatham said that Mr Doyle has an excellent record, having not breached the Whip Rule in the past 12 months.  He referred to the Penalty Guide, which recommended a $250 fine a breach of this nature.  He said that on this occasion, there are no reasons to deviate from the recommended penalty.

Mr Doyle had nothing further to add concerning any proposed penalty.

Reasons for Penalty

The Penalty Guide starting point for a breach of this nature is a $250 fine.  There are no compelling reasons to deviate.  Accordingly, a $250 fine is imposed.

Note: It is a defence if he did not strike his mount 3 times after the 100-metre mark.  On this occasion, Mr Doyle struck is mount a further 4 times from the 100 metres to the finish and the defence, therefore, does not apply.

Conclusion

Mr Doyle is fined $250.