Wellington RC 18 June 2022 – R3 – Faye Lazet

Evidence:

Following the running of Race 3, the Respondent Ms Lazet admitted a charge alleging excessive whip use prior to the 100 metres.

Apprentice Mentor Ms Clapperton was present to assist.

Rule 638(3)(g)(i) provides that in a Flat Race a Rider must not:

(i) 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)

Using the available race films Mr Davidson demonstrated that Ms Lazet struck her mount 6 times from the straight entrance to the 100-metre mark. There was a 7th strike right on the 100m mark which was not counted.

Ms Lazet agreed with the number of times she had used her whip as counted by the Stewards.

Decision:

As Ms Lazet admitted the breach the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved.

Submissions For Penalty:

Mr Davidson produced the Respondent’s record which indicated:

9/3/22   Otaki 6 strikes    warning issued

21/5/22   Wellington 7 strikes $400 (Listed race and won race)

Stewards submitted a penalty commensurate with the NZTR Revised Penalty Guide for excessive whip use (as of 1 March 2022).

Ms Lazet made no submissions in regard to penalty.

Reasons For Penalty:

The Penalty Guide starting point for a 3rd breach of this nature is $500.

After considering the film evidence and the submissions, the Adjudicative Committee was satisfied there were no aggravating factors requiring an uplift from the starting point.

On that basis Ms Lazet is fined $500.

Conclusion:

Ms Lazet is fined $500, and was reminded that a fourth breach would likely result in a period of suspension.