Wanganui JC 5 April 2025 – R1 – Craig Grylls

Evidence:

Following the running of Race 1, the “MANAWATU THOROUGHBRED RACEHORSE OWNERS ASSOCIATION 3YO”, Mr Goodwin presented an Information charging Mr Grylls, the Rider of “I AM NUTZ” with careless riding, in breach of Rule 638(1)(d).

It was contended that Mr Grylls permitted his mount to shift inwards near the 1100 metre mark when not sufficiently clear of “JADE DRAGON” (Ms K Myers), which was checked and when steadied, went back onto “SHACKTIME” (K Chowdhoory).

Mr Grylls admitted the breach.

The race films disclosed that “I AM NUTZ”, when going forward after the start from barrier 6, and being directed to lead, crossed “JADE DRAGON” from barrier 2, when not the required distance clear.  It then steadied so as to hamper that horse.  Ms Myers had to check and take hold of her mount, which was forced back onto “SHACKTIME”, which had started from barrier 1.  As a consequence, it was forcibly checked, so lost considerable ground.

Mr Grylls advised that he attempted to direct his mount forward, and in doing so, crossed Ms Myers’ mount, but in taking hold of his mount, it overreacted so as to lead to the “concertina” effect that resulted.

Decision:

As the charge was admitted, it was deemed proved.

Submissions for Penalty:

Mr Goodwin submitted that the breach was “low to midrange”.  Mr Grylls is possibly the most busy (and at present, most successful) Jockey in New Zealand, having had 769 rides over the last 12 months.  He has a very exemplary record of only 2 breaches of the Rule, in October 2024 and November 2024.

Mr Grylls has riding commitments over the next 7 days.

Reasons for Penalty:

From the Penalty Guide, the Adjudicative Committee fixes a starting point for low/midrange breach of 6 days suspension.  To this, it is required to take into account as an aggravating fact, that “I AM NUTZ” was able, having got to the front, to control the pace and lead throughout and win the race.  This factor requires an uplift of 1 day.  However, the outstanding record of Mr Grylls requires a meaningful discount be given.  The Adjudicative Committee fixes that at 2 days.

Conclusion:

Accordingly, Mr Grylls’ Licence to ride is suspended for 5 National Riding Days, to commence at the end of racing on 13 April 2025 and to conclude at the end of racing on 23 April 2025.