I guess better than hitting the flank....

[Chief Stipe]

Lawson-Carroll is fined $300

 

EVIDENCE:

 

Following the running of Race 8, Senior Stipendiary Steward, Mr A Dooley presented an Information charging Mr A Lawson-Carroll with a breach of Whip Rule 638(3)(f)(ii) in that he used his whip with arm raised above shoulder height in the final straight on his mount SUAVETTA (which ran 4th).

 

Mr Lawson-Carroll admitted the charge and had with him Apprentice Mentor Mr N Harris for support.

 

The race films illustrated Mr Lawson-Carroll using his whip 3 times in the last 100 metres above shoulder height.

 

Mr Lawson-Carroll said because of his size, he sometimes has difficulty reaching back with his whip. He realised that this was not an excuse for the breach.

 

DECISION:

 

As the charge was admitted, it was deemed proved.

 

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

 

Mr Dooley advised that Mr Lawson-Carroll has had one previous breach on 20 January 2025. In the light of that, he recommended a fine of $300. The Penalty Guide being $250 for a first offence and a $50 uplift to reflect the second offence.

 

Mr Lawson-Carroll advanced no penalty submissions.

 

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

 

The Adjudicative Committee considered that as this was the second breach, it required an uplift in penalty and determined that a fine of $300 was appropriate (a $50 uplift).

 

CONCLUSION:

 

Accordingly, Mr Lawson-Carroll was fined $300.

 

Decision Date: 07/05/2025

 

Publish Date: 09/05/2025

[Chief Stipe]

I did like Ace's explanation - that his small stature make it difficult to reach back!  I do think he is quite a promising little Jockey and he is very small in height!