Wellington RC 18 October 2025 – R8 – Sima Mxothwa

ID: RIB59711

Respondent(s):
Simamkele Mxothwa - Apprentice Jockey

Applicant:
Ms L Selvakumaran - Stipendiary Steward

Adjudicators:
Hon J W Gendall KC (Chair)

Persons Present:
Ms L Selvakumaran, Ms K Jillings - Stipendiary Steward, Mr S Mxothwa assisted by Ms K Clapperton

Information Number:
A17899

Decision Type:
Race Related Charge

Charge:
Excessive use of the whip

Rule(s):
638(3)(g)(i) - Contravention whip rule

Plea:
Admitted

Animal Name:
SPENCER

Code:
Thoroughbred

Race Date:
18/10/2025

Race Club:
Wellington Racing Club

Race Location:
Trentham - 10 Racecourse Rd, Upper Hutt, 5018

Race Number:
R8

Hearing Date:
18/10/2025

Hearing Location:
Trentham Racecourse

Outcome: Proved

Penalty: Apprentice Jockey Sima Mxothwa is suspended for 5 National Riding Days

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 8, the “NZCIS WELLINGTON CUP PACKAGES NOW ON SALE SPRINT”, Ms Selvakumaran presented an Information charging Mr Mxothwa with a breach of Whip Rule 638(3)(g)(i) in that  he struck his mount “SPENCER” with his whip 9 times prior to the 100 metres mark.

Mr Mxothwa, assisted by Ms Clapperton, admitted the breach of the Rule.

Ms Jillings presented the race films to illustrate the nature of Mr Mxothwa’s actions.  “SPENCER” was racing in midfield and wide on the track entering the  home straight.  From about the 400 metre mark, up until the 100 metre mark, the horse was struck with the whip by Mr Mxothwa 9 times.  It was not in serious contention and finished 6th in the field of 9 runners.

DECISION:

As the charge was admitted, it was deemed to be proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

The Informant advised that Mr Mxothwa had a clear record, but a suspension was required.  Ms Clapperton, on behalf of Mr Mxothwa, submitted that the length of the Trentham straight may have influenced him, in that his use of the whip began only at the 400 metre mark.  Because of riding commitments, the allowed deferment was sought.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

On this occasion, the Adjudicative Committee deemed that a suspension was the appropriate penalty.

CONCLUSION:

Accordingly, Mr Mxothwa’s Licence to ride was suspended for 5 National Riding Days, to commence at the conclusion of racing on 26 October 2025 and to end at the conclusion of racing on 2 November 2025.

Decision Date: 18/10/2025

Publish Date: 21/10/2025