Stewards’ Inquiry – Thoroughbreds
18 November, 2008
Thoroughbred
RWWA Stewards yesterday concluded the inquiry into the reason for LE BON JEUNE (P. Knuckey) and WESTERN FORCE (D. Staeck) bumping and buffeting on several occasions near the 200m with LE BON JEUNE being restrained and becoming unbalanced in Race 3 the Quality Produce International Handicap (1400m) run at Ascot Racecourse on Saturday, 15 November 2008.
Further evidence was taken from Jockeys’ P. Knuckey and D. Staeck.
Jockey Daniel Staeck was found guilty to a charge of improper riding under ARR137(a) in that when riding WESTERN FORCE in Race 3 the Quality Produce International Handicap (1400m) run at Ascot Racecourse on Saturday, 15 November 2008, near the 200m, he deliberately rode his horse inwards, leaned to the nearside, raised and extended his left arm to pocket LE BON JEUNE. WESTERN FORCE and LE BON JEUNE buffeted heavily and shortly after LE BON JEUNE restrained inwards across the heels of AMIANAN (Jarrad Noske).
In considering penalty Stewards were mindful of:
- The seriousness of the charge
- The riding of Jockey Staeck was intentional and deliberate
- The dangerous position riders’ and horses’ were placed in
- Jockey Staeck’s record – this being a first offence for improper riding
- Personal circumstances
Jockey Daniel Staeck was suspended from riding in races for a period of two months effective immediately and to expire Saturday,17 January 2009.
John A. Zucal
RWWA Chairman of Stewards
For more information contact:
Racing and Wagering Western Australia
Stewards Division
70 Grandstand Road
Ascot WA 6104
Ph: (08) 9277 0777