Wellington RC 14 December 2025 – R1 – Brad Collins

EVIDENCE:

Mr Goodwin presented an Information charging Barrier Attendant Mr B Collins with Misconduct, in breach of Rule 800 in that he hit the horse OCEAN BEAU in the vicinity of its head with an open hand on two occasions, whilst it was in the starting gates before the running of Race 1, the “GRANT PLUMBING MAIDEN SPRINT”.

Mr Collins did not admit the breach of the Rule.

The head-on film of this 1200 metre race depicted that OCEAN BEAU, in barrier No. 1 at the gates, was proving to be very difficult.  It was fractious and rearing several times.  The Barrier Attendant beside the No. 1 stall was Mr Collins.  Ms Hercock was the Rider of the horse.  Her evidence was that the horse was very difficult and she felt “it was getting dangerous” and she had hoped it would be late scratched.  She said that Mr Collins was doing his best to deal with the situation in order to “keep me safe”.  After the horse had stopped rearing and was momentarily standing still, Mr Collins then hit it twice on the head with his open hand.

Ms Hercock was adamant in her defence of Mr Collins that he was “keeping her safe”, but she acknowledged that “you are not supposed to do it” (ie hit on head).

REASONS FOR DECISION:

Despite the obvious extenuating circumstances, the Adjudicative Committee found the charge of Misconduct established.  It is forbidden for any person to strike a horse on the head.  It is well known to all engaged in racing that it is a very sensitive and vulnerable part of a horse’s body, and all know (as Ms Hercock said) “you are not supposed to do it”.  Whilst the degree of force used was not severe and Mr Collins said his “aim was to keep the Jockey safe”, the horse was standing immobile when he hit it.

DECISION:

The charge was found proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Mr Goodwin acknowledged that there were extenuating circumstances and submitted that what occurred, arose out of frustration.  He advised that Mr Collins had a previous conviction for Misconduct, by striking a horse behind the starting barrier at Foxton trials on 13 May 2025, for which he was fined $250.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Adjudicative Committee advised Mr Collins that despite having some sympathy towards him, the vital purpose of any sanction was to ensure that others (whether Jockeys, Trainers, Attendants or whoever) are deterred from such actions.  The welfare of horses and the integrity of racing’s social licence are predominant.

CONCLUSION:

A fine of $200 was imposed.