Waikato TR 27 April 2024 – R7- Bill Jacobson

Background:

Following the running of Race 7, the Group 2 ‘Travis Stakes’, an Information was lodged alleging a breach of Rule 638(3)(g)(i).

Details of the breach are as follows:

‘in that he struck his mount ‘Final Purchase’ eight times prior to the 100 metres’ 

Mr Jacobson confirmed to the Adjudicative Committee that he understood the Rule and admitted the breach.

Rule 638(3)(g)(i) provides that in a Flat Race a Rider must not:

(i) except as provided for in (iii) (A) and (B) of this sub rule, strike a horse 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);

Evidence:

Using available film, Stewards identified the incident. Mr Jacobson is seen to strike his mount on eight occasions between the top of the straight and the 100 metre mark. A 9th strike is applied just inside the 100 metre mark, with 2 more evident prior to the finish line (ie: 11 in total). Final Purchase finished 3rd in the event. Mr Jacobson confirmed that he agreed with the count.

Decision:

As the Respondent admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee found the breach proved.

Submissions for Penalty:

Stewards advised that Mr Jacobson has breached this particular Rule on two occasions within the last six months namely, Auckland TR on 9/12/2023, 8 strikes – fine $500 and Thames JC on 3/1/2024, 7 strikes – fine $600.  The Adjudicative Committee was referred to the NZTR Penalty Guide. Mr Jacobson did not offer specific comment around penalty, although sought deferment of any suspension until after the Whangarei RC Meeting at Ruakaka on 1st of May 2024.

Reasons for Penalty:

The breach is clearly identified by film. The current NZTR Penalty Guide provides for a starting point of 5+days suspension for a 3rd offence, 3 additional strikes. Additionally, in Black Type Races, the starting point for a fine to an amount equal to 50% of the Jockey’s share of the stake earned by the Jockey’s mount, may be imposed in addition to any suspension – this sum is calculated at $337.50. After consideration of all matters, a starting point of a 5 day suspension was adopted, with an uplift of 1 day imposed to reflect race status, ie 6 days, in addition to which a fine of $300 is imposed. The Respondent’s request for deferment is granted.

Conclusion:

Mr Jacbson’s Licence to ride in races is suspended for 6 National Riding Days. Deferment is granted, with suspension to take effect from the close of racing on 1st of May 2024, up to and including 9th of May 2024.  A fine of $300 is imposed, in addition to the suspension.