Wanganui JC 30 November 2024 – R4 – Liam Kauri

ID: RIB48942

Respondent(s):
Liam Kauri - Apprentice Jockey

Applicant:
Mr Neil Goodwin - Senior Stipendiary Steward

Adjudicators:
Mr Bruce Mainwaring, Mrs Nicki Moffatt

Persons Present:
Mr Neil Goodwin - Senior Stipendiary Steward, Ms Kelly Jillings - Stipendiary Steward, Ms Kim Clapperton - assisting Mr Kauri

Information Number:
A17756

Decision Type:
Race Related Charge

Charge:
Whip Use above Shoulder Height

Rule(s):
638(3)(f)(ii) - Contravention whip rule

Plea:
Admitted

Animal Name:
Phats

Code:
Thoroughbred

Race Date:
30/11/2024

Race Club:
Wanganui Jockey Club

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

Race Number:
R4

Hearing Date:
30/11/2024

Hearing Location:
Wanganui Racecourse - Purnell Street Whanganui

Outcome: Proved

Penalty: Apprentice Jockey Liam Kauri is fined $250

Background:

Following the running of Race 4, the ‘Gas and Heating 1600’, an Information was lodged alleging a breach of Rule 638(3)(f)(ii). Details are as follows:

‘in that he used his whip with arm raised above shoulder height in the final straight on his mount PHATS’.

Rule 638(3)(f)(ii) provides:

(f) A Rider must not use his or her whip:

(ii) using an action that raises the Riders arm above shoulder height.

The Respondent confirmed to the Adjudicative Committee that he understood the Rule and admitted the breach. This was endorsed by Ms Clapperton.

Evidence:

Using available film, Stewards identified the incident. In the straight, PHATS was positioned away from the fence and finishing strongly. Mr Kauri is seen to strike his mount twice, with the action commencing from above shoulder height. The strikes were just either side of the 100 metre mark.

Mr Kauri was asked for comment. Whilst in no means seeking to excuse his actions, he did comment that given he is a taller Jockey, longer arms meant that his action is somewhat accentuated.

Decision:

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

Submissions for Penalty:

Stewards outlined the Respondent’s record. It remains clear, as it relates to any breach of this particular Rule within the last 6 months. The Adjudicative Committee was referred to the current NZTR Penalty Guide.

Reasons for Penalty:

Available film did identify the alleged breach.  The current NZTR Penalty Guide provides for a $250 fine for a first offence breach under this particular Rule. Given circumstance, same was considered an appropriate penalty.

Conclusion:

Mr Kauri is fined a sum of $250.

Decision Date: 30/11/2024

Publish Date: 02/12/2024