Auckland TR 22 March 2023 – R1 – Matthew Cropp

Evidence

Following the running of Race 1, the Respondent Class A and D Rider Mr Cropp admitted a charge alleging excessive whip use (8 strikes) 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, Stipendiary Steward Mrs Selvakumaran pointed out CASCATELLA (M Cropp) who was racing three back on the fence entering the home straight.  She demonstrated that the Respondent struck his mount 8 times prior to the 100-metre mark.

Mr Cropp accepted the number of strikes and had nothing further to add.

Decision

As the Respondent admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved.

Submissions For Penalty

Mrs Selvakumaran produced the Respondent’s record, which indicated 1 previous breach of the Whip Rule.  This occurred at Auckland TR on 1 November 2022 in a Group 3 Race and resulted in a $550 fine.

Mr Cropp had nothing to add in relation to penalty. He advised that he could commence any proposed suspension immediately.

Reasons For Penalty

The Penalty Guide starting point for a breach of this nature, a second breach involving three additional strikes, is a 5-day suspension.  There are no aggravating factors to consider and no reasons to deviate from the Penalty Guide.  On that basis a 5-day suspension is imposed.

Conclusion

Mr Cropp’s licence to ride in races is suspended for 5-days, commencing after racing on 22 March 2023 and concluding after racing on 1 April 2023.