Avondale JC 25 May 2022 – R2 – Matthew Cropp

Evidence

Following the running of Race 2, the Respondent, Class D Rider Matthew Cropp admitted a charge alleging excessive whip use prior to the 100 metres.

Mr Cropp indicated on the Information that he admitted the breach and he confirmed his plea to the Adjudicative Committee.

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 demonstrated that the Respondent struck his mount 6 times from just prior to the straight entrance to 100-metre mark.

Mr Cropp had nothing to further to add.

Decision

As Mr Cropp admitted the breach the Adjudicative Committee finds the breach proved.

Submissions For Penalty

Mrs Selvakumaran advised that Mr Cropp received a warning for his whip use on 10 April 2022 and on that basis this charge constitutes his second breach of the Rule in the past 6 months.  She said that the Guidelines which came into force on 1 March 2022 provide for a $250 fine for a second breach.

Mr Cropp offered no submissions as to penalty.

Reasons For Penalty

The Penalty Guide starting point for a breach of this nature is a $250 fine.

After considering the film evidence, the submissions and having due regard for the number and frequency of strikes; the Adjudicative Committee determined there are no compelling reasons to depart from the starting point set out in the Penalty Guide.

Conclusion

Mr Cropp is fined $250.