Waverley RC 20 October 2024 – R6 – Rihaan Goyaram

Background:

Following the running of Race 6, the ‘The Tom Andrew Contracting/Mark Neil PGG MDN 2200’, an Information was lodged alleging a breach of Rule 638(1)(d). Details are as follows:

‘in that he allowed his mount ‘KEEN ON BUBBLES’ to shift inwards after the start, when not sufficiently clear of PREDECESSOR which clipped a heel’.

Rule 638(1)(d) provides:

(1) A Rider shall not ride a horse in a manner which the Adjudicative Committee considers to be:

(d) careless.

The Respondent (assisted by Apprentice Jockey Mentor Ms Clapperton) confirmed to the Adjudicative Committee that he understood the Rule and admitted the breach.

Evidence:

Using available film, Stewards identified the incident and horses involved. KEEN ON BUBBLES drew a middle gate. On leaving the gates, Mr Goyaram looked to cross when insufficiently clear, causing PREDECESSOR (Mr Kavish Chowdhoory) to clip heels. Stewards contended that the incident was beyond tightening that may normally be experienced after a race start. Mr Goyaram agreed with Stewards’ interpretation, as did Ms Clapperton, who added the Respondent was early to move and should have momentarily kept his line before looking to cross.

Decision:

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

Submissions for Penalty:

Stewards outlined that the Respondent’s record is clear, as it relates to any breach of this particular Rule within the last twelve months. Mr Goyaram is an inexperienced, albeit well regarded Apprentice, having had 153 mounts since commencing race day riding in June 2024.

Stewards contended that the breach was low range and referred the Adjudicative Committee to the current NZTR Penalty Guide. Mr Goyaram did not offer specific comment, although sought deferment of any suspension imposed, to satisfy riding engagements on 27 October 2024.

Reasons for Penalty:

The Adjudicative Committee was satisfied that the breach represented a low range careless ride.

Film identified that the Respondent was not sufficiently clear, when looking to cross. It is acknowledged that some tightening can be expected after race start, however, Mr Goyaram should have exercised greater care before moving. Mr Chowdhoory was fortunate not to be dislodged.

The current NZTR Penalty Guide provides for a starting point of a 5 day suspension in circumstance of a low range careless ride. This was deemed an appropriate penalty. Deferment of the suspension was granted.

Conclusion:

Mr Goyaram’s  Licence to ride in Races is suspended for 5 National Riding Days, from the close of racing on 27 October 2024, up to and including 5 November 2024.