RACEHORSE OWNERS ASSOCIATION NOVICE PLATE (Maidens & 1 time Winners)

THE STARTER REPORTED: a) JAQUAR CAT (X Ndlovu) was stubborn loading, causing a delay. b) DOG DETACHMENT (TM Musekiwa) was stubborn loading. THE STIPENDIARY STEWARDS REPORTED: a) Leaving the 100m ADMIRALS CHANCE (R Fourie) had to be steadied away from the heels of STAY THE COURSE (M Mjoka) which shifted out away from the crop, changed stride and then had to be straightened. Thereafter STAY THE COURSE (M Mjoka) continued to shift out away from crop in the latter stages. Jockey M Mjoka appeared before the Board, was shown the patrol film of the race and was advised that in similar circumstances, he needs to make more effort to keep his mounts on a straight course. Furthermore, Jockey Mjoka was advised that his use of the crop had come under notice and his attention was drawn to the Rules pertaining to crop use, read with Guideline D. Jockey Mjoka was further advised that his crop use will be closely monitored in future engagements. b) Trainer E Kaknis was questioned regarding the improved performance of RUSSIAN EMPIRE (R Munger) compared to this colt's run on the 25th November 2022. Trainer Kaknis told the Stewards that on that occasion RUSSIAN EMPIRE had been drawn 12 out of 14 over 1000m and he had failed to overcome the poor draw. He further told the Stewards that today this colt was more favourably drawn and the drop in merit rating had also benefited RUSSIAN EMPIRE. Trainer Kaknis' attention was drawn to the Rules pertaining to in-and-out running and he was advised that this colt's future performances would be closely monitored. c) In view of the report from the starter regarding JAQUAR CAT (X Ndlovu), this colt's starting stall certificate has been withdrawn. He is suspended for 7 days in terms of Rule 61.6.10 and until such time as he proves to be tractable to load with a companion. Suspension dates: 17/12/2022 to 23/12/2022 inclusive. JAQUAR CAT may not be presented for re-passing during this period. d) RUSSIAN EMPIRE, the winner, was selected for the taking of specimens for analysis. Trainer E Kaknis was advised (LM). JOCKEY AND/OR EQUIPMENT CHANGES: a) MODERN MAGICIAN raced with a compression mask on (declared 05h29 on 20221213) RACE CARD CHANGES / OTHER a) Nil THE VETERINARY SURGEON REPORTED: a) JAQUAR CAT - brush wound right hind SCRATCHED: a) GENTLEMAN - not eating up. Rule 53.5 applies (declared 08h06 on 20221216)