Waverley RC 3 March 2023 – R9 – Chris Carmine

Evidence:

Following the running of Race 9, the Respondent Class A Rider Mr Carmine admitted a charge of careless riding issued pursuant to Rule 638(1)(d). The Information alleged:

“Allowed his mount Dash of Red to shift outwards when not sufficiently clear of Tahi Tama which was forced out onto Keve which is then forced out on to Perfect Turn which had to be steadied”.

Mr Carmine acknowledged that 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 available film, Stewards outlined the incident and identified the horses and Riders concerned.

Approaching the 600m mark, Mr Carmine is positioned against the fence with his horse over racing slightly. He is seen to glance over and then proceeds to roll away from the fence. In doing so, he is insufficiently clear of the horses to his outside. Despite having an opportunity to straighten, Mr Carmine continues to move out, crowding horses to his outside, who in turn are required to be steadied. When asked, Mr Carmine  commented that his horse was having it’s first start, was green and was ‘not an easy ride’.

Decision:

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

Submissions for Penalty:

Senior Stipendiary Steward Mr Goodwin produced the Respondent’s record in respect of breaches of this type. His record is clear over the last twelve months. Stewards contended that the level of carelessness sat at the low to mid range.

Mr Carmine sought deferment of any suspension (to the close of racing on 11th March 2023) to satisfy riding engagements. He had nothing further to add in relation to penalty submission.

Reason for Penalty:

After considering submissions and reviewing film, the Adjudicative Committee determined Mr Carmine’s carelessness to sit at low to mid range. It would have sat at low, although an aggravating factor was that the Respondent did not correct when the opportunity arose.  In line with Guidelines, a 6 day suspension was adopted as a starting point. In turn, a 1 day day reduction in penalty was applied to reflect ready admission of the breach.

Conclusion:

Deferment of suspension was granted. Accordingly, Mr Carmine’s licence to ride in races is suspended for 5 national riding days from the close of racing on 11th March 2023, up to and including 20th March 2023.