Wellington RC 14 January 2023 -R2 – Warren Kennedy
ID: RIB14149
Animal Name:
HEMI RIDAPEST
Code:
Thoroughbred
Race Date:
14/01/2023
Race Club:
Wellington Racing Club
Race Location:
Trentham - 10 Racecourse Rd, Upper Hutt, 5018
Race Number:
R2
Hearing Date:
14/01/2023
Hearing Location:
Trentham Racecourse
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Jockey Warren Kennedy is fined $500
Evidence
Following the running of Race 2, an Information was lodged alleging the Respondent, Class A Rider Mr W Kennedy, used his whip 7 times prior to the 100m.
Rule 639(3)(g)(i) provides that a rider must not:
“Strike a horse with a whip more than 5 times prior to the 100-metre mark (other than in a slapping motion down the shoulder with the whip hand remaining on the reins)”
Mr Kennedy confirmed to the Adjudicative Committee that he understood the Rule and admitted the breach.
Using the race films, Stewards demonstrated that Mr Kennedy struck his mount 7 times from the straight entrance to the 100-metre mark.
Mr Kennedy agreed with the number of strikes but said they were only slaps and not made with a high action.
Decision
As the Respondent admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved (Rule 915(1)(d) refers).
Submissions for Penalty:
Mr Oatham said that Mr Kennedy has had one previous breach of the Whip Rule on 19th October 2022. On that occasion he won the race and was fined $400. Today he ran 4th.
Mr Kennedy said he is trying hard and doesn’t usually get the number of strikes wrong.
Reasons for Penalty:
Current Penalty Guidelines provide for a $500 fine day for a second breach in circumstances of two additional strikes.
There are no aggravating factors requiring an uplift. Accordingly, after consideration of the facts a $500 fine is imposed.
Conclusion:
A fine of $500 is imposed.
Decision Date: 14/01/2023
Publish Date: 16/01/2023