Wellington RC 11 March 2023 – R4 – Bailey Rogerson

Evidence:

Following the running of Race 4, the Respondent Apprentice Jockey Bailey Rogerson admitted a charge of careless riding issued pursuant to Rule 638(1)(d). The Information alleged:

“Allowed her mount Martina Diva to shift inwards leaving the home straight when not clear of Red Emperor (M Hudson) which clipped that runners heels and blundered”

Ms Rogerson acknowledged she understood the Rule and confirmed her admission of the breach. This was endorsed by Ms Clapperton.

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.

MARTINA DIVA drew a wide gate in the 2200 metre maiden event. Soon after the start, approaching the first turn, the Respondent sought to position closer to the fence. To her inside was RED EMPEROR (Ms M Hudson), who was in turn on the outside of KAZADEROSE (Mrs L Allpress).  Upon moving, MARTINA DIVA was insufficiently clear of RED EMPEROR, who clipped heels and blundered. Ms Hudson showed skill to stay in the saddle.

When asked for comment, Ms Rogerson noted she heard considerable noise from her inside. This was Mrs Allpress yelling to Ms Hudson. Ms Hudson is seen to glance to her inside on 2 or 3 occasions.  Whilst not negating her carelessness, Ms Rogerson asserted that Ms Hudson’s attention was diverted and as a result, may have been slow to react to MARTINA DIVA’S movement.

Decision:

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

Submissions for Penalty:

Stipendiary Steward Mr Simpson produced the Respondent’s record in respect of breaches of this type over the last twelve months. These are as follows:

28/8  Hawera – low/mid – 5 days suspension

31/8  Cambridge – low – 5 days suspension

13/1  Tauranga – low/mid – 5 days suspension

Stewards contended the the level of carelessness sat at the mid range and referred the Adjudicative Committee to the current Penalty Guidelines.

Ms Rogerson sought deferment of any suspension to satisfy riding commitments on 18th March 2023.

Reason for Penalty:

After considering submissions and reviewing film, the Adjudicative Committee determined Ms Rogerson’s carelessness to sit at mid range.  Guidelines provide for starting point of 7 days suspension. On balance, when considering all factors, the Adjudicative Committee found no reason to depart from same.

Conclusion:

Deferment of suspension was granted. Accordingly, Ms Rogerson’s licence to ride in races is suspended for 7 national riding days effective from the close of racing on 18th March 2023, up to and including 1st April 2023.