The National Horseracing Authority confirms that at an Inquiry held in Gqeberha on Friday, 29 December 2023, Jockey J Gates was charged with a contravention of Rule 58.10.2, read with Guideline M in Appendix E on the use of the crop.  The particulars being that he misused his crop by striking GALLIC TRIBE more than twelve times (13) in the entire race, during Race 7, at Fairview Racecourse on 5 November 2023.   

Jockey Gates pleaded not guilty but was found guilty of the charge.

The Inquiry Board after considering the aggravating and mitigating factors, the status of the race as well as Jockey Gates’ record pertaining to this type of contravention, ruled that he be suspended from riding in races for a period of fourteen (14) days and a fine of R5 750.00 (five thousand seven hundred and fifty rand) was imposed.

Jockey Gates was given the Right of Appeal against both the finding and the penalty imposed.