Distinction between foul riding and dangerous riding
By
Sharan Kumar
A
recent incident at the Bangalore Turf Club has sparked debate over the
definitions and severity of foul riding versus dangerous riding, as two jockeys
faced differing punishments for different infractions. The Stipendiary Stewards
charged Anthony Raj and Saqlain with foul riding but the Stewards later
reclassified the offence as dangerous riding surprisingly resulting in lighter
penalties.
According
to the official explanation, foul riding involves actions such as elbowing out
a horse, which can potentially endanger the rider and others on the track. In
contrast, dangerous riding is described as interference without severe
consequences. However, this explanation has raised eyebrows within the racing
community, as dangerous riding is conventionally perceived as the more serious
offence due to its potential for causing harm.
Critics
have pointed out that the Bangalore Turf Club Stewards' decision appears to
lack consistency and fails to address the gravity of dangerous riding. The
stewards' handling of the situation has drawn criticism for what some perceive
as a lack of thorough consideration and understanding of the nuances involved.
In
horse racing, foul riding pertains to actions that violate the sport's
regulations, often disrupting fair competition without directly endangering
participants or horses. Examples include obstructing paths or impeding
progress, which can lead to penalties or disqualification. Conversely,
dangerous riding involves behaviours that pose significant risks to safety,
such as reckless whipping or taking hazardous routes through obstacles. Due to
the potential for severe injuries or accidents, dangerous riding is treated
with utmost seriousness and may result in harsh penalties, including
suspensions or expulsion from competitions.
As
discussions continue regarding the definitions and consequences of foul riding
and dangerous riding, it becomes increasingly evident that a clear
understanding of these distinctions is vital for maintaining safety and
fairness in equestrian sports.
In
race number 96 of the Bangalore Winter Racing event, jockey Saqlain's maneuver
drew attention as he closed the gap, preventing Auspicious Queen who was coming
from behind from taking the path which looked open. Despite the horse being
well ahead, stewards deemed Saqlain's action as deliberately impeding
Auspicious Queen's path, resulting in the disqualification of the winner,
Shabelle. Saqlain was penalized for dangerous riding and received a three-day
suspension. Critics argue that Saqlain's actions better fit the definition of
foul riding, a less severe offence. The decision effectively equated Saqlain's
punishment with Anthony Raj, who was guilty of dangerous riding in a previous
race.
In
race number 95 of the Bangalore Winter Racing, jockey Anthony Raj's actions on
Ricardo prompted scrutiny. Immediately after leaving the gates, Raj failed to
maintain a straight course and shifted inward, causing jockey Vivek G on
favourite In Thy Light to stumble and fall. This action was deemed dangerous as
it posed a significant risk of injury to both horse and rider. While stewards
correctly labelled Raj's actions as dangerous, critics argue that they failed
to distinguish between foul and dangerous riding. The latter, by its nature,
implies a more serious offence with potentially severe consequences.
Criticism
has been directed at the stewards in Bangalore, with accusations that they tend
to penalize professionals without a thorough grasp of the subject matter, thus
failing to comprehend the full ramifications of their decisions.
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