Waikato TR 6 July 2024 – R7 – Jessica Allen

Evidence

Following the running of Race 7, the Respondent Apprentice Rider Jessica Allen, admitted a charge alleging excessive whip use prior to the 100 metres, namely that she struck her mount 7 times.

Rider Agent Mr Ted McLachlan was present at the hearing in support of Ms Allen.

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, Chief Stipendiary Steward Mr Oatham, said that ELECTRIC TIME (Ms Allen) was challenging for the lead in the run up the home straight. He demonstrated that she struck her mount 7 times from the straight entrance to the 100-metre mark and applied a further 4 strikes over the final 100 metres.

Neither Ms Allen nor Mr McLachlan offered any further comments.

Decision

As Ms Allen admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved.

Submissions for Penalty

Mr Jones produced Ms Allen’s record, which indicated one previous breach of the Whip Rule. This occurred on 1 June 2024, (8 strikes), resulting in a $500 fine.

Mr Oatham advised that the Penalty Guide provides for a $500 fine, for a second breach involving 7 strikes.  He said that there are no aggravating factors and recommended that a penalty commensurate with the Penalty Guide be imposed.

Ms Allen made no submissions as to penalty.  Mr McLachlan submitted the last of the 7 strikes was close to the 100 metres.

Reasons for Penalty

The Penalty Guide starting point is a $500 fine for a second breach involving 7 strikes.  After considering the film evidence, the submissions and having due regard for the number and frequency of strikes and the force used, the Adjudicative Committee determined there are no compelling reasons to depart from the starting point. On that basis, a $500 fine is imposed.

Conclusion

Apprentice Rider Ms Jessica Allen is fined $500.