Southland RC – 5 February 2009 – Race 4

Rule 871(1)(e): An information was lodged by Stipendiary Steward Mr Ching against Jockey Miss A Tempelman riding AVOID alleging that Miss Tempelman rode her mount in an incompetent manner between 1000 metres and 400 metres.

Rule 871(1)(e): An information was lodged by Stipendiary Steward Mr Ching against Jockey Miss A Tempelman riding AVOID alleging that Miss Tempelman rode her mount in an incompetent manner between 1000 metres and 400 metres.

Mr Ching began by asking Stipendiary Steward Mr Davidson to use video film to highlight the incident. The film clearly showed that Miss Tempelman's mount (AVOID) received a check at the start of the race and that AVOID was restrained to the rear.

Mr Ching alleged that Miss Tempelman restrained her horse further than needed, not taking an inside run when presented, thereby saving several lengths. Mr Ching also demonstrated, using film, where Miss Tempelman attempted to improve wide out between the 1000 metre and 400 metre marks, once again, covering extra ground and losing several lengths.

Miss Tempelman agreed with the evidence presented, stating that she lost some confidence after receiving a bad check just after the start. Her instructions were to go to the front and this of course proved to be not possible. Miss Templeman also stated that the horse (AVOID) was a difficult horse to ride. Trainer Mr Pitman, confirmed this fact and stated that the horse required blinkers. Miss Tempelman, on reflection, stated that she should have taken the opportunity to save ground when presented. Mr Pitman also commented that he would engage a more senior rider for AVOID at its next start..

In his summary, Mr Ching stated that the charge may have been more serious if Miss Tempelman was a more experienced jockey. No evidence of any previous convictions of a similar type was presented. Mr Ching suggested a range of penalty between 4-6 weeks suspension.

DECISION:

Miss Tempelman is suspended for a period of 4 weeks, up to and including 4 March 2009. Effectively, this is 6 riding days.

NOTE:

Before reaching this decision, the Committee considered the following mitigating circumstances:

--
1. A guilty plea, --
2. The relative inexperience of the jockey (an apprentice with only 32 rides.) --
3. The horse received a bad check at the start of the race - this may have affected the jockey's confidence. --
4. Mr Pitman's supporting comments regarding the horses racing manners. --
5. Miss Tempelman's honesty and frankness. --
6. Similar offences under the same rule presented to the committee by Mr Ching.

A Dennis

Chairman