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Auckland TR 22 March 2023 – R2 – Tom Ryan

ID: RIB17668

Respondent(s):
Tom Ryan - Other (Jumps Jockey)

Applicant:
Mrs Selvakumaran - Stipendiary Steward

Adjudicators:
Mr G R Jones

Persons Present:
Mrs Selvakumaran, Mr Ryan, Mr M Godber (observer)

Information Number:
A16237

Decision Type:
Race Related Charge

Charge:
Excessive use of the whip

Rule(s):
638(3)(g)(i) - Contravention whip rule

Plea:
Admitted

Stewards Report

Results

Animal Name:
LET FLY

Code:
Thoroughbred

Race Date:
22/03/2023

Race Club:
Auckland Thoroughbred Racing

Race Location:
Pukekohe Park - 222/250 Manukau Road, Pukekohe Hill, Pukekohe, 2120

Race Number:
R2

Hearing Date:
22/03/2023

Hearing Location:
Pukekohe Park

Outcome: Proved

Penalty: Jumps Jockey Tom Ryan is fined $250

Evidence:

Following the running of Race 2, the Majestic Horse Floats 2100 (Highweight), Information No. A16237 was lodged alleging the Respondent, (Class D Jumps) Rider Mr Tom Ryan, struck his mount, LET FLY, seven times prior to the 100-metre mark.

Mr Ryan confirmed to the Adjudicative Committee that he admitted the breach.

Rule 638(3)(g)(i) provides that a rider must not:

“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)”

Using available film, Stipendiary Steward Mrs Selvakumaran demonstrated that LET FLY, was racing outside the leader as the field entered the home straight. She pointed out that from the straight entrance to the 100-metre mark, Mr Ryan struck his mount seven times.

Mr Ryan agreed with the number of strikes and added that one of the strikes was down the shoulder and didn’t think it would count.

Decision:

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

Submissions for Penalty:

Mrs Selvakumaran advised that Mr Ryan has a clear record.  He last rode in New Zealand 5 years ago and is now based in Australia.  A penalty in line with current Guidelines was recommended.

Mr Ryan offered no submissions as to penalty.

Reasons for Penalty:

Current Penalty Guidelines provide for a fine of $250 in circumstances of a first breach involving two additional strikes. There are no aggravating factors to consider. On that basis, the Adjudicative Committee found no reason to depart from the Guideline.

Conclusion:

The Respondent Mr Ryan is fined $250.

Decision Date: 22/03/2023

Publish Date: 23/03/2023