R Rotorua 28 April 2023 – R5 – Ace Lawson-Carroll

Evidence:

Following the running of Race 5, the “Sweeney Townsend Insurance Brokers 1230”, Mr A Dooley presented an Information charging Mr Lawson-Carroll with careless riding in breach of Rule 638(1)(d).  It was alleged that Mr Lawson-Carroll permitted his mount “ATTRIBUTE” to shift inwards near the 800 metres mark when not sufficiently clear of “VALETTI” ridden by Ms M Sanson, which was dictated inwards to check “MARTELL”, ridden by Mr Lammas.

Mr Lawson-Carroll, assisted by Mr Harris, admitted the charge.

Mr Dooley illustrated the events by reference to the head and side on race films.  About 400 metres after the start, “ATTRIBUTE”, ridden by Mr Lawson-Carroll, was racing towards the outside and moving forward.  Mr Lawson-Carroll was looking inwards to the horse in front or beside his mount.  Ms Sanson, riding “VALETTI” was immediately inside “ATTRIBUTE” and kicked up to hold her line less than 1 length in arrears of “ATTRIBUTE”.  Mr Lawson-Carroll allowed his mount to shift inwards to secure a more prominent position when not the required distance ahead of “VALETTI” which was holding the line to which it was entitled.  As a consequence, “VALETTI” was forced inwards onto “MARTELL” causing Mr Lammas to have to check his mount, which then lost significant ground.

Mr Lawson-Carroll and Mr Harris observed that he was looking inwards, endeavouring to comply with his obligations but made an error of judgment in crossing when not clear.

Decision:

As the charge was admitted, it was deemed proved.

Submissions for Penalty:

Mr Dooley said that the breach was in the low/mid range, resulting in a well supported runner being disadvantaged.  He advised that Mr Lawson-Carroll had only just returned to active riding being laid off through injury for 3 months.  He has had 294 rides during the past 12 months with only 1 previous breach of the Careless Riding Rule on 16 December 2022.

Reasons for Penalty:

Mr Lawson-Carroll has committed engagements to ride at Ruakaka on 3 May 2022.  He is entitled to a deferment in commencement of any suspension.

There is no discernible reason to depart from the NZTR “Penalty Guide” provision of 5 National Riding Days suspension, (2 of which are in the South Island where Mr Lawson-Carroll did not intend to ride in any event).

Conclusion:

Accordingly, Mr Lawson-Carroll’s Licence to ride is suspended for 5 National Riding Days, to commence at the conclusion of racing on 3 May 2023 and end at the conclusion of racing on 10 May 2023.