Waikato TR 24 August 2024 – R9 – Rihaan Goyaram

Following the running of Race 9, the Respondent Class B Rider Mr Rihaan Goyaram admitted a charge alleging excessive whip use prior to the 100 metres.

The Information alleged that Mr Goyaram struck his mount (RUSSIAN SATIRE) 8 times prior to the 100 metres.

Rule 638(3)(g)(i) provides that in a Flat Race 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);

Mr Goyaram was assisted in the hearing by Mr L Innes.

Using the available race films, Senior Stipendiary Steward Mr J Oatham identified RUSSIAN SATIRE (R Goyaram). He said Mr Goyaram struck his mount twice before the straight entrance and a further 6 times in the home straight (8 times in total).

Mr Goyaram provided no comment in relation to the incident.

Decision

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

Submissions for Penalty

Mr Oatham advised that Mr Goyaram has had 1 breach in the previous 6 months. This occurred on 23/7/24, which resulted in a $500 fine.

Mr Oatham submitted that the Penalty Guide provides for a 5 day suspension for a breach of this nature.

Mr Goyaram said he had commitments up until 31/8/24 and would take any proposed suspension after that date.

Reasons for Penalty

The Penalty Guide starting point for a breach of this nature, is a 5 day suspension.

Having considered the circumstances of the breach, number of strikes and force used, the Adjudicative Committee saw no reason to deviate from the Penalty Guidelines.

Conclusion

Class B Rider R Goyaram is suspended for 5 days.

The suspension commences after racing on 31/8/24 and concludes after racing on 13/9/24.