Wellington RC 28 June 2025 – R1 – Joshua Parker

Evidence:

Following the disqualification of “FABULOUS NANCY”,  from its 6th finish place in Race 1, “THE NORM BEVAN MEMORIAL MAIDEN STEEPLECHASE”, Mr Goodwin presented an Information charging Mr J Parker with incompetent riding, a breach of Rule 638(1)(e).

He contended that the Rider was incompetent when “he took the wrong course” when leaving the infield, with his mount subsequently being disqualified.

Mr J Parker admitted the charge.

The relevant facts and circumstances are recorded in the Adjudicative Committee’s earlier Decision when the first, fifth and sixth placed horses were disqualified as their respective Riders ignored or overlooked, the instructions given to them, pre race, as to the proper course they were required to follow, as the field left the infield, to join the course proper in the home straight.

“FABULOUS NANCY” was well out of contention and of fulfilling a place.  However, Mr J Parker wrongly followed two other horses, “SMUG” and “CATCH AND RELEASE”, in taking the incorrect route.  He overlooked the instructions all Riders had been properly given.

Decision:

As the charge was admitted, it was deemed proved.

Submissions for Penalty:

Mr Parker has a good record and accepted he made a mistake and regretted his error.

Reasons for Penalty:

From a recommended starting point of 4 weeks suspension (not assessed in “riding days”), there are mitigating factors (such as a good record, his ready acceptance of his mistake, his mount did not finish in a dividend earning place, genuine regret for his error) for which a reduction of 1 week is afforded.

Conclusion:

Accordingly, Mr J Parker’s Licence to ride is suspended for 3 weeks, to commence at the conclusion of racing on 6 July 2025 and to finish at the conclusion of racing on 27 July 2025.