Wanganui JC 2 December 2023 – R1 – Jonathan Riddell

Evidence:

Following the running of Race 1, the Respondent Class A Rider Mr J Riddell admitted a charge of careless riding which was filed pursuant to Rule 638(1)(d).  The Information alleged that as the Rider of TOUCH O’PARADISE, he angled his mount outwards when near the 600m, resulting in SHEAF being checked.

The Respondent acknowledged he understood the Rule and confirmed his admission of the breach.

Rule 638(1)(d) provides: A Rider shall not ride a horse in a manner which the Adjudicative Committee considers to be careless.

Using the available race films, Stipendiary Steward Mr Goodwin demonstrated the incident and identified the horses and Riders concerned.

He showed that approaching the 600 metres, Mr Riddell was racing in a position on the rail in approximately 5th place. Ms Hercock went to the lead and slowed the pace, forcing the Riders in behind to take a hold. Mr Riddell, instead of taking a hold, eased outwards and caused a check to Ms Sutherland, who had also decided to leave the rail.

In response, Mr Riddell said he was a bit unlucky because he hadn’t moved outwards very much and he thought Ms Sutherland was still directly behind him. The fact her horse was travelling so well, meant she had got off the rail before him and he didn’t realise she was where she was.

Decision:

As the Respondent admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved

Submission for Penalty:

Stipendiary Stewards produced Mr Riddell’s riding record, which indicated 3 previous breaches under the Careless Riding Rule in the last 12 months, namely:

12/1/23  Wanganui  4 days

5/4/23  Hastings 4 days

30/9/23  Hastings 8 days (Group 1 Race)

He has had 393 mounts in the past 12 months.

Stipendiary Steward Mr Goodwin said Stewards assessed the level of carelessness to be in the low range.

Mr Riddell  advised of riding engagements through until Saturday December 9th, and sought a deferment to any proposed suspension.

Reasons for Penalty:

Following a thorough review of all submissions, the Adjudicative Committee concluded that Mr Riddell’s account of the incident was credible. According to him, both he and Ms Sutherland were leaving the fence simultaneously, but her horse was performing much better. As he eased out, he was unaware of her proximity. It was highlighted that Ms Sutherland went on to secure victory in the race.

The Adjudicative Committee determined the level of careless to be low range and adopted a 5-day (suspension) as the starting point in accordance with the NZTR Penalty Guide as of February 2023.

Taking into account the Respondent’s riding record as a mitigating factor, considering the number of rides he has undertaken, a 1-day reduction was granted from the 5-day starting point due to his admission of the breach and his record. The Adjudicative Committee acknowledged that the 4 days of suspension were genuine missed days for Mr Riddell, including a premier day.

Upon careful consideration of these factors, a 4-day suspension was imposed.

Conclusion:

The Respondent’s request for a deferment is granted and his Licence to ride in races is suspended for a period of 4 days, commencing after racing on Saturday December 9th and concluding after racing on Saturday December 16th.