Wellington RC 14 January 2023 – R5 – Dean Yendall

Evidence

Following the running of Race 5, the Respondent Mr D Yendall admitted a charge alleging excessive whip use prior to the 100 metres.

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); or

Using the available race films, Mr Oatham demonstrated that the Respondent struck his mount 7 times from the straight entrance to the 100-metre mark.  Mr Yendall accepted he was 2 strikes over the allowed number.

Decision

As Mr Yendall admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved (Rule 915(1)(d) refers).

Submissions For Penalty

Mr Yendall is an Australian Rider and Mr Oatham explained that all visiting Riders are considered to have a clear record when riding in New Zealand (unless having been previously charged under our Rules) with regards to whip infringements.

Mr Yendall won the race which carries Group 3 status. Stewards submitted a penalty commensurate with the NZTR Revised Penalty Guide for excessive whip use (as of 1 March 2022).

The Respondent’s share of the stake was $2875.

Mr Yendall accepted that would be a fair penalty.

Reasons For Penalty

After considering the film evidence, the submissions, the Group 3 status of the race and Mr Yendall’s share of  the stake, the Adjudicative Committee determined that a fine of 50% of his share was an appropriate penalty.

On that basis Mr Yendall is fined $1400.

Conclusion

The Respondent is fined $1400.