Wanganui 12 January 2023 – R3 – Jonathan Riddell

ID: RIB14193

Respondent(s):
Jonathan Riddell - Jockey

Applicant:
Mr K Coppins – Stipendiary Steward

Adjudicators:
Mr N McCutcheon

Persons Present:
Mr Coppins, Mr J Riddell, Mr N Goodwin – Stipendiary Steward

Information Number:
A17336

Decision Type:
Race Related Charge

Charge:
Careless Riding

Rule(s):
638(1)(d) - Riding/driving infringement

Plea:
Admitted

Animal Name:
HE'SA BATTLER

Code:
Thoroughbred

Race Date:
12/01/2023

Race Club:
Wanganui Jockey Club

Race Location:
Wanganui Racecourse - 19 Purnell Street, Whanganui, 4500

Race Number:
R3

Hearing Date:
12/01/2023

Hearing Location:
Wanganui Racecourse

Outcome: Proved

Penalty: Jockey, Jonathan Riddell is suspended for 4 days

FACTS

Mr Riddell the Rider of “HE’S A BATTLER” admitted a breach of Rule 638(1)(d).

The breach being one of careless riding near the 400m, when allowing his mount to shift inwards, dictating “SMURF” (M Hudson) into the line of “KEVE” (M Cropp) which was checked.

Mr Riddell said that he understood the Rule, charge and confirmed that he admitted the breach.

Mr Goodwin showed film replays and identified where Mr Riddell allowed his mount to shift in, forcing “SMURF” into the line of “KEVE” which was checked.  Mr Goodwin said that “KEVE” had begun to weaken prior to the incident.

Mr Riddell said that he did drift in a little but did not realise that two runners were back on his inside.

DECISION

As the charge was admitted it was deemed proved.

PENALTY SUBMISSIONS

Mr Coppins said that Mr Riddell had a very good record with only one breach of the Rule in the last 12 months (May 2022).  He said that the Stewards placed the carelessness below mid-range.  He referred to the Penalty Guide.

Mr Riddell said that he had riding engagements up to 18 January 2023.

REASONS FOR PENALTY

Taking into account when assessing quantum of penalty was; degree of carelessness, very good record for a busy Rider, the admitted breach, that “KEVE” was weakening prior to the incident occurring and that a suspension would include the Million Dollar Meeting on 21 January.

CONCLUSION

Mr Riddell’s Jockey’s Licence was suspended from end of racing on 18 January to 26 January 2023 inclusive (4-Days).

Decision Date: 12/01/2023

Publish Date: 16/01/2023