Auckland TR 11 November 2021 – R7 – Amber Sims

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 7, Ms Amber Sims, the Rider of EKSTRA was charged with using her whip on 8 occasions prior to the 100m (5 is the limit).

Ms Sims admitted the breach and confirmed she was familiar with the Rule.

Using the available films Mr Williamson identified Ms Sims and her mount EKSTRA GHIA and demonstrated Ms Sims’ whip use which identified she struck her mount 8 times prior to the 100m.

Ms Sims did not contest Mr Williamson’s submissions and had nothing further to add.

REASON FOR DECISION:

As the charge was admitted it was found proved.

SUBMISSION FOR PENALTY:

Mrs Selvakumuran said Ms Sims had a clear record under this Rule, however, the Stewards saw the breach to be in the mid-range due to the number of strikes.

Ms Sims, had nothing to add

REASON FOR PENALTY:

The Committee took the opportunity to view the film independently and noted that while Ms Sims did strike her mount on 8 occasions, there were several pauses and the strikes occurred over a distance of 300m. The Committee also noted that all of the strikes were back handers and not forceful.

On this occasion, the Committee were not suitably convinced that the penalty did fall in the mid range and determined that an appropriate penalty would be in line with the starting point of a breach of this nature, a $250 fine.

PENALTY:

Ms Sims was fined $250.