Whangarei RC – 6 January 2026 – R4 – Courtney Barnes
ID: RIB62519
Animal Name:
ALAYALAY
Code:
Thoroughbred
Race Date:
06/01/2026
Race Club:
Whangarei Racing Club
Race Location:
Ruakaka Racecourse - Peter Snell Road, Ruakaka, 0151
Race Number:
R4
Hearing Date:
06/01/2026
Hearing Location:
Ruakaka Racecourse
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Rider Courtney Barnes is fined $300
Following the running of Race 4 the rider of ALAYALAY, Courtney Barnes was charged with a breach of Rule 638(3)(f)(iii) which provides that “the whip must not be used on a horse when it is out of contention of finishing in the first five places.” Ms Barnes confirmed she understood the rule and that she admitted the charge.
Accordingly, the charge is deemed to be proved.
Evidence
The films were shown by the Stewards which clearly demonstrated that ALAYALAY was traveling at the tail of the field around the 200 metre mark. There were 7 horses well ahead, spread across the track. Ms Barnes was seen to strike her mount 3 times which appeared to have no effect on her horse who finished in 9th place.
Ms Barnes said that her mount had missed the kick at the start, she had thought she was making some ground but acknowledged it was an error of judgement to use the whip when she did.
Penalty
The Stewards noted Ms Barnes had a clear record in relation to breaches of this rule and she had readily admitted the breach.
The Starting Point in the Penalty Guide provides for a fine of $300. The Adjudicative Committee acknowledges Ms Barnes’ good record and early admission therefore sees no reason to go above the Starting Point.
Ms Barnes is fined $300.
Decision Date: 06/01/2026
Publish Date: 07/01/2026