SEVEN DAYS (THE WEDNESDAY REPORT): THE WEEKLY REVIEW (APRIL 23 - APRIL 29) - THE STEWARDS' ROOM

By Graham Potter | Wednesday, April 30, 2014

HRO's news and commentary feature - SEVEN DAYS (THE WEDNESDAY REPORT) - provides a weekly review of racing activity, both on and off the track.

STEWARDS REPORTS EXTRACTS:

FROM IPSWICH (APRIL 23):

SUPPLEMENTARY: (Eagle Farm Saturday 19 April 2014 - Race 8): Trainer B Baldwin advised that HEART OF MANY, which pulled up after the race with a cough, underwent an endoscopic examination which revealed that the horse had mucous in its airways and as a consequence would now undergo treatment.

Correct weight race was delayed to afford the stewards and K. Yoshida, the rider of EARHART, which reared as the start was effected and lost considerable ground, the opportunity of viewing the film to ascertain whether that mare had been afforded a fair start. After viewing the videos, stewards and jockey Yoshida were satisfied that EARHART had not been denied a fair start and correct weight was declared on the numbers semaphored. Trainer R. Lipp was advised that a warning would be placed on the barrier manners of EARHART. (Race 1). *EAREHART ($6) finished sixth 3.80 lengths behind the winner.

Trainer R. Heathcote advised that he had instructed jockey K. Wharton to ride DUNGIVEN positively out of the gates. NOTHING BUT GLORY (C. Kearney) and DUNGIVEN (K. Wharton) were slow to begin. (Race 3).

Approaching the 100m PRETTY PICTURE (T. Bell) raced in restricted room for a short distance between ROCBOLT and HUSSYENDA, which shifted in. M. Cahill, the rider of HUSSYENDA, reported at scale that he lost the use of his offside rein at this point. (Race 3). *HUSSYENDA ($6) finished second 0.40 lengths behind the winner.

FROM KILKOY (APRIL 24):

Whilst parading behind the barriers, THOMAS THE TANK, which became fractious, dislodged V. Vankaya, giving him a seemingly harmless fall. THOMAS THE TANK was examined by the veterinary surgeon and cleared to start.

Near the 800m, EMBRAER (P. Holmes), which after beginning awkwardly, was ridden hard to obtain a forward position and had to be restrained to avoid the heels of HARMON (A. Spinks), which shifted in and away from THOMAS THE TANK, which crowded the running of HARMON when improving forward. Whilst stewards noted a number of contributing factors, A. Spinks, rider of HARMON, was advised to exercise more care in similar circumstances, and V. Venkaya, rider of THOMAS THE TANK, was reprimanded and advised to allow sufficient room for runners to his inside. SHINER (S. Apthorpe), which was following, was also inconvenienced in this incident.

Correct weight was delayed to enable P. Holmes, rider of the 2nd placegetter, EMBRAER, to view the stewards' patrol video rounding the home turn to ascertain if he had grounds to lodge a protest against THOMAS THE TANK (V. Venkaya) being declared the winner. Subsequent, jockey Holmes did not wish to proceed with an objection and correct weight was given on the Judge's semaphored numbers. (Race 2).

On return to scale J. Morris reported that SLICK LAGO was making a respiratory noise and as such was reluctant to place the horse under pressure. A post race veterinary examination of SLICK LAGO failed to reveal any significant abnormalities. Trainer T. Crane will be interviewed at a later date regarding the horse's performance. (Race 4). *SLICK LAGO ($7) finished unplaced 10.20 lengths behind the winner.

When asked to comment on the disappointing performance of DARYL'S RUN, rider M. Hellyer advised that although over-racing the gelding travelled fairly throughout, and from the 600m failed to respond to his riding and proved disappointing. Trainer D. Heinemann started that whilst he was disappointed with the gelding's performance he was of the opinion that the horse was not suited to today's the tight turning track and it was now his intention to start the horse on larger tracks. A post race veterinary examination of DARYL'S RUN failed to reveal any significant abnormalities. (Race 4). *DARYL’S RUN, the $4.60 second favourite, finished last.

G. Goold, rider of ALL IN ALL reported that the filly greenly throughout and would take benefit from today's run. Whilst stewards noted the racing manners of ALL IN ALL, G. Goold was nonetheless reminded of his obligations to ride his mounts right out the finish of the race. (Race 6). *ALL IN ALL ($6) finished fifth, 2.60 lengths behind the winner and 0.20 lengths behind the fourth placed runner.

FROM BEAUDESERT (APRIL 25):

A post-race veterinary examination of AMAZING MR HUGHES (L. Cassidy), which commenced to hang out leaving the 300m, forcing COOL CHOICE (T. Harrison) and CHANGLY (J. Johnson) wider, revealed that the gelding had pulled the off-fore plate, which may have explained why it hung out at that point. As a consequence, EARN MCCRACKEN, which was held up on the heels of AMAZING MR HUGHES from the 500m to the 300m, was then able to improve to the inside of that runner. (Race 1). * AMAZING MR HUGHES, the $2 favourite, finished fourth 2.40 lengths behind the winner.

PEARLY COURT, which was caught wide in the early stages, had to be ridden forward to obtain a position outside, the leader, STIFF THUNDER (A. Hearn) near the 700m. Apprentice Johnson reported that she was instructed to obtain a forward position today but conceded that she would have been better served remaining three wide as PEARLY COURT commenced to weaken leaving the 400m as a result of the work it was required to do in the early stages. (Race 4). *PEARELY COURT ($7.50) finished 13.80 lengths behind the winner.

Leaving the 400m OLD FEELING (T. Wolfgram) shifted in and away from BLACK POINT and made contact with the running rail. As a result, OLD FEELING became very unbalanced and lost ground at that point of the race. A post-race veterinary examination of OLD FEELING failed to reveal any abnormalities. (Race 5). *OLD FEELING ($10) finished last 12.90 lengths behind the winner.

A post-race veterinary examination of ALQUERO revealed the gelding to be lame in the off foreleg. Trainer D. Forster was advised that a veterinary clearance will be required for ALQUERO prior to its next start. (Race 5). *ALQUERO, the $1.60 favourite, finished second 0.80 lengths behind the winner.

A post-race veterinary examination of CAMPIONESSA (T. Harrison) revealed the mare to be lame in the off foreleg. Trainer D. Murphy advised that CAMPIONESSA would be sent for a spell. Nonetheless, stewards advised Mr Murphy that a veterinary clearance would be required before the mare could start again. (Race 5). *CAMPIONESSA ($4.40) finished third 1.60 lengths behind the winner.

As no senior rider was available at the weight, stewards permitted apprentice B. Appo to replace B. El-Issa as the rider of ALLISON JADE. (Race 6).

Approaching the 400m ITCHINTOWIN improved on to the heels of SAVEEDA and shifted out. ITCHINTOWIN was then held up until a point near the 250m. When asked whether there was an opportunity for him to shift ITCHINTOWIN four wide to improve leaving the 500m, jockey Cassidy stated that he was of the view that SAVEEDA was going to shift out to improve, which would have allowed him to improve to the inside. Jockey Cassidy added that he was advised by the trainer not to shift extremely wide to make a sustained run to the finish line. As a consequence, SLYSERA improved to his outside, which resulted in him being held up. Stewards noted the explanation. (Race 7). *ITCHINTOWN ($5.50) finished seventh 2.20 lengths behind the winner.

When questioned as to the seemingly improved performance of FAULTLESS DANCER, trainer I. Livingstone stated that at its two previous starts the mare had drawn wide barriers and as a consequence had been ridden vigorously early to obtain a forward position which in his view had a detrimental effect on those performances. Mr Livingstone added that today FAULTLESS DANCER was able to obtain a forward position with cover which enabled it to finish the race off. The explanation was noted. (Race 7). *FAULTLESS DANCER ($11) won the race.

FROM CUNNAMULLA (APRIL 25)

Approximately 300M past the winning post PARRAGUNDY stumbled and dislodged Apprentice Jockey Ms J. Brand. Stewards spoke to Ms Brand who stated that in her opinion the horse placed its hoof in a hole when attempting to pull her mount up at the 1700M point of the track, approximately three to six horses off the inside running rail.

Stewards conducted an extensive inspection the track with a number of riders immediately after the event and shortly after this inspection spoke to all riders in relation to the matter. After considering the opinions of the riders, and based on their own observations of the track surface in the relevant area, Stewards declared that the track was safe for racing and the meeting proceeded. Stewards nevertheless advised all riders to ride with due care when pulling up for the remaining races. Apprentice Jockey Brand suffered no injuries as a result of being dislodged and rode for the remainder of the program. PARRAGUNDY showed no ill effects after the incident. (Race 2).

Leaving the mounting yard FLIGHT COMMAND made contact with the enclosure gate. The horse was examined by the attending Veterinarian and was passed fit to start. (Race 3). *FLIGHT COMMAND ($8) finished last 13.10 lengths behind the winner.

PEKING STYLE (Ms C. Rogers) made contact with the enclosure gate when leaving the mounting yard and was subsequently dislodged its rider. The gelding then ran off and was eventually caught by barrier staff. The horse was examined by the attending Veterinarian and passed fit to start. (Race 5). PEKING STYLE ($13) finished second last 7.00 lengths behind the winner.

FROM HOME HILL (APRIL 25):

General: Stewards conducted an inspection of all trucks and floats. No breaches of the rules were detected.

FROM MOUNT ISA (APRIL 25):

Stewards commenced an inquiry into the use of the whip in the straight by Jockey A. BADGER who rode MONTH OF SUNDAYS. The inquiry was adjourned until 3rd May, 2014. (Race 1).

LEFT BEHIND (App R. Vigar) knuckled badly on jumping resulting in its rider losing the use of his off side iron and becoming unbalanced in the saddle. A post race veterinary examination of LEFT BEHIND revealed the gelding to have sustained a laceration to the right fore fetlock and to be sore in the knee. Trainer Mr G. Wiles was advised that he is required to supply a veterinary certificate of fitness before the gelding can race again. (Race 2). *LEFT BEHIND ($13) finished last.

When questioned jockey J. Morrison (MIMI'S ROCKET) he explained that after jumping fairly the mare failed to show sufficient speed in the early stages and as a result raced back in the field. He said that from this point MIMI'S ROCKET resented the kick back and raced ungenerously. He added that near the 800m when he heard a call from a runner to his inside he then attempted to relieve the pressure to his inside and as result lost further ground. A post race veterinary examination of MIMI'S ROCKET did not reveal any abnormalities. His explanation was noted. (Race 3). MIMI’S ROCKET ($8) finished second last 7.60 lengths behind the winner.

FROM WONDAI (APRIL 25):

When questioned regarding the performance of WILD MAX, Jockey S Bayliss reported that after wanting to hang out rounding the first turn, the gelding resented the kickback from other runners and lost ground near the 500m as a result. (Race 1).

On returning to scale, Apprentice T Brooker reported that MANNER LASSIE did not handle the sand track. (Race 2).

FROM EAGLE FARM (APRIL 26):

PURE PURRFECTION (J. Byrne) was held up in the early stages of the straight and shifted out near the 100m inconveniencing THE STOREMAN. (Race 1). *PURE PURRFECTION ($21) finished second 1.00 lengths behind the winner.

J. Taylor reported that SPORTING PAGE hung in for a major part of the home straight. Trainer P. Donnollan advised he now intends to place SPORTING PAGE in a one eyed blinker for future starts. (Race 1). *SPORTING PAGE ($17) finished fourth 3.60 lengths behind the winner.

A post race veterinary examination of EMPRESS ME (T. Bell), which finished a distant last, revealed no abnormalities. Trainer S. O'Dea advised that the mare would now be spelled. (Race 2).

T. Bell (STAR DROP) reported at scale it was not his intention to race in a forward position however, was unable to restrain the filly in the early stages of the event. (Race 3). *STAR DROP ($21) finished fourth 3.70 lengths behind the winner.

Near the 500m DEUCED (R. McMahon) shifted out making contact with OUR MATE MUZ (R. Spokes), resulting in that gelding shifting out making contact with EMOTIONS IN MOTION (App B. Appo). STAR DROP which was following shifted out abruptly to avoid the heels of EMOTIONS IN MOTION.
RAYS ARE LUCKY (M. Cahill) was held up rounding the home turn. (Race 3).

MAGIC IN MOTION (G. Colless) shifted out shortly after the start and continued to shift ground resulting in JUST A PERLA (App B. Appo) striking its heels near the 1350m and blundering. (Race 4).

Passing the 1000m SAGUARO (J. Byrne) had to be eased off the heels of HOPFGARTEN (D. Browne). RUDY (App T. Harrison) which was following also had to be steadied. Approaching the 700m BODEGA NEGRA shifted out making contact with RUDY, resulting in that horse becoming unbalanced. (Race 6). *RUDY, the $3.10 favourite, finished third 1.40 lengths behind the winner.

When questioned regarding the tactics adopted on HOPFGARTEN jockey D. Browne stated he had no specific instructions from trainer R. Heathcote however, he had ridden the horse in a handy position 2 starts back at Eagle Farm. He added that when the gelding began well he elected to push forward hoping to race in a handy position with cover however, when it was apparent he was going to be caught wide he elected to ride forward to race outside the leader AVALANCHES (S. Galloway) approaching the 1000m. (Race 6). *HOPFGARTEN (8) won the race.

App T. Harrison the rider of TEMPLE OF BOOM accidentally dropped her whip near the 200m. App Harrison was questioned regarding the tactics adopted on TEMPLE OF BOOM. App Harrison stated she had specific instructions to have the gelding race wherever comfortable and not to pressure or restrain the gelding in the early stages. App Harrison added that although she raced wide she was reluctant to push forward to clear SOMEDAY (C. Munce). (Race 7). *TEMPLE OF BOOM ($41) won the race.

A post race veterinary examination of RIVER LAD revealed the gelding to have been hit in the near side eye by a clod. (Race 7). *RIVER LAD ($9.50) finished second last 3.50 lengths behind the winner.

FROM SUNSHINE COAST (APRIL 26):

As L. Rolls was dually engaged, C. Whitley was substituted as the rider of BOOM BOX. L. Rolls was fined $200. As P. Holmes failed to arrive on course, G. Cooksley was substituted as the rider of STONECAST. P. Holmes was fined $200 for failing to fulfil his engagement. (Race 2).

The start of this race was delayed when ROYAL SCRIBE (N. Masuda), which after being difficult to load became fractious in the barriers and broke through the front gates before being restrained after cantering a short distance, underwent a veterinary inspection and was cleared to start. (Race 3). *ROYAL SCRIBE, the $3 favourite, finished fourth 4.40 lengths behind the winner.

BON TEMPS (M. Carson), which made contact with the fence when leaving the enclosure, was examined by the veterinary surgeon at the barriers and cleared to race. (Race 5). *BON TEMPS ($9) finished fifth 2.40 lengths behind the winner.

Stewards questioned apprentice T. Brooker, in the presence of Jockeys Advocate Mr D. Tanti, regarding her riding of ON THE DECK, particularly in the middle stages. Ms Brooker stated that her instructions were to allow ON THE DECK to have ample racing room and as such she elected to shift wider on the track leaving the 700m in order to follow these instructions. Whilst stewards noted the instructions given, they advised Ms Brooker that in their opinion, although she may have erred in shifting the horse wider on the track as early as she did and not track SUGAR DADDY into the race, in the circumstances her riding was not culpable under the rules, however reminded her of her obligation to ride the race as it presents itself. (Race 5). *ON THE DECK ($12) finished third 1.60 lengths behind the winner.

Stewards questioned apprentice B. Derbyshire regarding the early tactics adopted on LEMAITRE. Apprentice Derbyshire stated that after beginning well, the gelding commenced to over-race, resulting in the saddle shifting forward, after which she had difficulty in controlling the horse. Trainer M. Bailey advised stewards that it was not the intention for LEMAITRE to lead, however accepted that apprentice Derbyshire was placed at a disadvantage when the saddle shifted forward. Stewards noted the explanations. (Race 8). LEMAITRE ($41) finished unplaced 7.10 lengths behind the winner.

FROM TOOWOOMBA (APRIL 26):

All jockeys riding at today's meeting provided a negative breath test prior to their first riding engagement.

The start was delayed when the Clerk of the Course was dislodged from his horse, which required recapturing. (Race 1).

As G. Geran was injured and not riding at today's meeting, he was replaced by B. Appo on DUQUESNE WHISTLE. However when B. Appo failed to arrive on course by the required time, S. Apthorpe was substituted as the rider of that horse. B. Appo was fined $100 for failing to fulfil his engagement. (Race 2).

The start was delayed when S. Drake was dislodged from TREVLYN'S COL behind the barriers. TREVLYN'S COL then galloped a circuit of the track riderless and was subsequently declared a late scratching. (Race 2).

On return to scale, jockey R. Goltz expressed disappointment with the performance of TURTLE MAN today. He added that he was able to obtain a forward position on the gelding today however when placed under pressure in the home straight, TURTLE MAN compounded. Trainer G. Taylor also expressed disappointment with the performance today, however advised that at its previous 2 starts the gelding had been ridden off the pace and was of the view that perhaps leading in tonight's event may have been to its detriment. A post race veterinary examination of TURTLE MAN failed to reveal any significant abnormalities. Trainer G. Taylor undertook to report to stewards any abnormality that becomes apparent that may have had a bearing on tonight's performance. (Race 2).

As B. Appo failed to arrive on course in time to fulfil his engagement on GRAPPA, S. Drake was substituted as the rider of GRAPPA. Stewards accepted the explanation tendered for his failure to fulfil this engagement. (Race 3).

LIGHTNING DRIFT (R. Goltz) jumped outwards at the start, making contact with LORD BEAUFORT (R. Ride). As a result, LORD BEAUFORT settled further back in the field than anticipated. Correct weight was delayed to allow R. Ride, rider of the 2nd placegetter LORD BEAUFORT, to view the stewards' patrol film of the start to ascertain if she had grounds to lodge a protest against the LIGHTNING DRIFT being declared the winner. Subsequently, R. Ride declined to lodge a protest. (Race 3).

On return to scale, J. Letherby (MISTER LOOSEEL) reported his saddle shifted forward near the 1200m, placing him at a disadvantage. He further advised that for this reason he elected to allow his mount to stride forward at this point rather than restrain to prevent the saddle from shifting further forward. (Race 7). *MISTER LOOSEEL ($17) finished fifth 2.60 lengths behind the winner.

A post race veterinary examination of SKILFUL PAT, which compounded from the 500m, failed to reveal any significant abnormalities. Trainer B. Currie was advised that in light of the poor performance of SKILFUL PAT, it will be required to trial in an official barrier trial to the satisfaction of stewards prior to racing again. (Race 7). *SKILFUL PAT ($11) finished a tailed off last.

FROM CHINCHILLA (APRIL 26):

On returning to scale Jockey I Coombes reported that CYCLONE STEVE resented the sandy section of the track at the 600m and did not stretch out after that point. (Race 1). *CYCLONE STEVE ($11) finished second last 16.60 lengths behind the winner.

An enquiry was opened into the start of MAGIC RAELENE. After taking evidence from the Duty Steward, App Tilley, connections and viewing the Patrol Video it was clear that the barrier gate of MAGIC RAELENE opened much later than the other gates and therefore was not afforded affair start. Subsequently MAGIC RAELENE was deemed to be a non-runner and all monies invested on the horse to be refunded. (Race 3).

Jockey B P Appo was questioned regarding his riding tactics on SERBIAN SINGER. Jockey Appo advised that he rode the mare in a similar manner at her previous start at Goondiwindi when placed second. When asked if he could have ridden more patiently in the middle stages Jockey Appo explained that his tactics were to gain a break on the field as he was aware that the mare may weaken over the concluding stages. He also added that he made the home turn wide looking for better going as he felt that the track had cut up nearer to the rails. These explanations were noted.

Jockey B Appo was reprimanded following failed to ride his mount out to the conclusion of the event. (Race 4). *SERBIAN SINGER ($4) finished second 2.30 lengths behind the winner and 0.10 lengths ahead of the third placed runner.

Jockey S Bayliss was attended to by the Ambulance staff for a lower back injury sustained when pulling up HONOUR JACKO after the race. Jockey Bayliss advised to seek further Medical attention. Medical Certificate required prior to riding again. (Race 5).

FROM EMERALD (APRIL 26):

Prior to correct weight, Apprentice M McGillivray (TELESIUS) and Trainer C Smith view the available patrol film and after doing so, lodged an objection against the winner FICKLE BUSINESS for interference in the straight. After hearing evidence from all parties, Stewards established that from near the 200 metres, FICKLE BUSINESS shifted out, however App McGillivray was not impeded from riding his mount at this point. FICKLE BUSINESS shifted out further from the 100m to near the 50 metres and at this point Apprentice McGillivray stopped riding and shifted to the inside. Given the margin of one length, Stewards could not be satisfied that this warranted a reversal of the placings, the objection was dismissed and correct weight declared. At a subsequent inquiry, Jockey S McGovern was reprimanded. (Race 5).

FROM TOWNSVILLE (APRIL 27):

SUPPLEMENTARY (From Townsville April 27 – Race 2): Stewards today concluded an inquiry into the running and handling of ZAHMATA OF HONOUR in the aforementioned race. Further evidence was taken from Jockey S. Wilson and trainer W. Kenning. Stewards also tendered information provided by Racing Queensland Betting Supervisor Mr R. See.

Jockey Wilson concurred with the opinion of the stewards that he erred by not persisting with his attempt to secure a run to the inside of FRUMBOLI (G. Kliese) near the 200 metres, which would have afforded him an unimpeded run to the finish, rather than shifting out and racing in restricted room between WINDSOR GOLD (T. Bannon) and CHAIR AS WELL (F. Edwards) over the final stages. Mr Kenning confirmed the instructions issued to Jockey Wilson, which were to take up a rearward position in accordance with the gelding's established racing pattern. Mr Kenning added that he instructed Jockey Wilson not to improve around the field and make a sustained run, rather to remain closer to the running rail in an attempt to save ground. After taking into consideration all of the evidence, stewards advised Jockey Wilson that, although stewards were of the opinion that his riding of ZAHMATA OF HONOUR lacked initiative, in all the circumstances the manoeuvre to shift out near the 200 metres was not unreasonable and, as such, stewards noted the explanations.

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STEWARDS SUSPENSIONS:

FROM KILCOY (APRIL 24):

M. Carson, rider of PURE FETISH, pleaded guilty to a charge of careless riding, in that near the 800m, he permitted his mount to shift in when insufficiently clear of AWESOME SIGHT (A. Hearn), which was then forced inwards onto the rightful running of I AM ROGUE (K. Yoshida), which had to be checked at this stage to avoid the heels of AWESOME SIGHT. M. Carson was suspended from riding in races for a period covered by 6 meetings, to commence at midnight, 26 April and to expire at midnight, 9 May. (Race 5).

FROM MOUNT ISA (APRIL 25):

App T. Tincknell (TEMPTING OFFER) pleaded guilty to a charge of careless riding under AR137(a) in that passing the 800m she allowed her mount to shift in when not clear of WAYNE'S GIFT which was carried into the running of GESTICULATION (T. Chambers) which had to be checked. App T. Tincknell's permit to ride in races was suspended for two meetings, being from midnight on 25th April 2014 up to and including midnight on Friday 9th May 2014. (Race 3).

FROM WONDAI (APRIL 25):

S Bayliss, rider of BEEFED UP, was found guilty of a charge of careless riding under the provisions of AR137(a), in that near the 850m he permitted his mount to shift in when insufficiently clear of MASTER VINNIE (J Missen), taking that runner in onto BAMBOO HOUSE (C Eaton), which had to be steadied and lost its rightful running. In assessing penalty stewards took into consideration S Bayliss's excellent record with regard to this rule. S Bayliss was suspended from riding in races for 6 meetings, to commence at midnight 29 April and to expire at midnight 9 May. (Race 4).

FROM TOOWOOMBA (APRIL 26)

SUPPLEMENTARY: Stewards Report - Nathan Evans
Racing Queensland stewards today concluded an inquiry into the handling of MANNER LASSIE in Race 1 at the Esk Jockey Club meeting on Saturday 12th April. Evidence on the day of the race was taken from Nathan Evans rider of MANNER LASSIE and Mr Glenn Richardson trainer of MANNER LASSIE. The matter was adjourned to allow Stewards to review the betting on the race and to further examine footage of the horse's recent starts.

Further evidence was today taken from the above mentioned parties, footage of the horse's recent previous starts and betting activity on this race. After giving consideration to the evidence tendered, Stewards charged jockey Nathan Evans under the provisions of AR 135(b) which reads:

The rider of every horse shall take all reasonable and permissible measures throughout the race to ensure that his horse is given full opportunity to win or obtain the best possible place in the field.

The specifics of the charge being that in Race 1 at the Esk Jockey Club on Saturday 12th April, the actions of jockey Nathan Evans, the rider of MANNER LASSIE, were unreasonable in restraining the mare from a point near the 150 metres and a short distance later near the 100 metres, were unreasonable in directing MANNER LASSIE to the inside of BUSH BEAT. As a result of these actions Stewards were of the opinion MANNER LASSIE was not given full opportunity to win or to obtain the best possible place in the field.

Jockey Evans pleaded not guilty to the charge and made submissions in defence of the charge. In considering jockey Evans' defence of the charge Stewards could not be satisfied that the explanations tendered by him were acceptable and as such he was found guilty.

In assessing penalty Stewards were mindful of the negative impact such actions have on the perception of the industry and the degree of culpability of a jockey of Nathan Evans' experience. Stewards also took into account jockey Evans' personal financial circumstances and the effect any such penalty may have. After taking into account all of these circumstances Stewards suspended the riding licence of Nathan Evans for a period of 4 weeks to commence midnight, 26 April and to expire at midnight, 26 May 2014. Jockey Evans was advised of his appeal rights.

N. Evans, rider of SKILFUL PAT, pleaded guilty to a charge of careless riding, in that after passing the 1500m he permitted his mount to shift in when insufficiently clear of TANGARA (E. Ljung), MISTER LOOSEEL (J. Letherby) and SADDLEBACK (S. Bogenhuber) resulting in those runners being tightened for room and S. Bogenhuber, rider of SADDLEBACK, having to check her mount and lose ground. N. Evans was suspended from riding in races for a period covered by 7 meetings, to commence at midnight, 26 April and to expire at midnight, 10 May. Stewards ordered that this suspension be served concurrently with the suspension issued to jockey Evans earlier in the evening. Following this inquiry, J. Letherby, rider of MISTER LOOSEEL, was reprimanded for the standard of evidence her provided during this inquiry. (Race 7).

FROM EMERALD (APRIL 26):

Jockey D Evans was found guilty to a charge of careless riding under AR 137(a) in that he permitted his mount to shift in when insufficiently clear of BJORN (K. Gates) and dictated that horse in onto DUAN THEO (S. McGovern) which was taken in and caused FADED to be tightened, checked and lose its rightful running. Jockey D. Evans' licence to ride in races was suspended from m/n 3rd May 2014 up to and including 13th May 2014. In deciding on penalty, Stewards considered the carelessness of Jockey Evans to be of a high degree. (Race 1).

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THIS WEEK’S FINES:

FROM CUNNAMULLA (APRIL 25):

Race 3: Trainer Mr R. Sullivan. Fined $100 AR141 Presenting his horse to the mounting yard with the incorrect saddlecloth number.

FROM EAGLE FARM (APRIL 26):

Race 1. G. Goold - App Jockey - Whip use - $200.00 - AR137A(5)(a)(ii)
Race 3. R. Lipp - Trainer - Late rider - $200.00 - LR67
Race 5. G. Heinrich - Trainer - Late rider - $200.00 - LR67

FROM SUNSHINE COAST (APRIL 26):

Race 2. L. Rolls - $200 - dual engagement - AR. 85B
Race 2. P. Holmes - $200 - failed to arrive on course - AR. 85B
Race 6. G. Cooksley - $100 - overweight, replaced 1 ride - AR. 120(b)

FROM TOOWOOMBA (APRIL 26):

Race 2. Bradley Appo - Fail to fulfil engagement - $100 - AR85B

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