Wanganui JC 26 November 2022 – R3 – Liam Kauri

Evidence

Following the running of Race 3, the Respondent Mr L Kauri admitted a charge alleging excessive whip use prior to the 100 metres.

Senior Rider Mr Chris Dell was present to assist.

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, Mr Goodwin demonstrated that Mr Kauri struck his mount 6 times from the straight entrance to the 100-metre mark.  He said from this point through until the finish, Mr Kauri was very restrained in his whip use.

Decision

As Mr Kauri admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved (Rule 915(1)(d) refers).

Submissions For Penalty

Mr Goodwin produced Mr Kauri’s record which indicated a warning was given at Wellington on 23rd October also for 6 strikes.

Mr Dell responded on behalf and said Mr Kauri had not long returned to race riding following injury and he was just taking a little while to adapt.

Reasons For Penalty

The Penalty Guide starting point for a breach of this nature is set out below. (as per updated NZTR Penalty Guide dated 1 March 2022)

Offence	1 additional strike	2 additional strikes	3 additional strikes	4 or more additional strikes
1st	Warning	$250	$500	Suspension 5 National Days
2nd	$250	$500	Suspension 5 National Days	Suspension 5+ National Days
3rd	$500	Suspension 5 National Days	Suspension 5+ National Days	Suspension 5+ National Days
4th	$500 + Suspension 2 National Days	Suspension 5+ National Days	Suspension 5+ National Days	Suspension 5+ National Days
5th and following	Suspension 5+ National Days	Suspension 5+ National Days	Suspension 5+ National Days	Suspension 5+ National Days

After considering the film evidence, the submissions and having due regard for the number and frequency of strikes, the Adjudicative Committee determined there were no compelling reasons to depart from the starting point set out in the Penalty Guide.

On that basis Mr Kauri is fined $250.

Conclusion

Mr Kauri is fined $250.