Waikato TR 18 June 2025 – R8 – Gareth Lahoud

BACKGROUND:

Following the running of Race 8, Apprentice Rider Mr G Lahoud (assisted by Mr N Harris), admitted using his whip in an action above shoulder height on his mount EMBOSSED.

Rule 638(3)(f)(ii) provides:

Without limiting the generality of subrule 638 (f)(ii), in a Flat Race . . . A Rider must not use his / her whip:

(ii)  using an action that raises the Rider’s arm above shoulder height.

EVIDENCE:

Trainee Stipendiary Steward Ms R Greig identified EMBOSSED ridden by Mr Lahoud, racing wide out on the track in the home straight. She pointed out that Mr Lahoud struck his mount once, using an arm action above his shoulder height.

EMBOSSED finished in third place.

Mr Lahoud had nothing to add concerning the breach.

DECISION:

As Mr Lahoud admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee finds the charge proved.

SUBMISSIONS ON PENALTY:

Stipendiary Steward Mr Dooley advised that Mr Lahoud had a clear record for this charge, but had earlier in the day, received a ‘warning’ for his whip use.

Mr Dooley said that the Penalty Guidelines provide for a fine of $250 for a first offence. He said that in the absence of any aggravating factors, there are no reasons to deviate from the Penalty Guide starting point.

Mr Lahoud had nothing further to add in terms of penalty. Mr Harris said that Mr Lahoud has recently returned to race riding following a 7-month break and added that “Mr Lahoud needs to slow things down a bit,” pointing out that he had eight mounts today and is keen to improve.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Penalty Guide starting point provides for a $250 fine. There are no compelling reasons to deviate from the starting point. Accordingly, a $250 fine is imposed.

CONCLUSION:

Mr Lahoud is therefore fined $250.