KUALA LUMPUR,  Jun 6, 2010

Apprentice Cheng Han Kok was today suspended two months for his handling of AUSSIE SON who finished ninth to GRADUATE BOY in a Class 3 - 1200m sprint at Sungei Besi here yesterday.

The Stewards concluded an inquiry into the running and handling of AUSSIE SON today. Evidence was taken from Cheng, the rider of AUSSIE SON, in the presence of his master, Trainer JH Tan, the trainer of AUSSIE SON.

Cheng pleaded guilty to a charge under MRA Rule 44(10) for failing to ride to the satisfaction of the Stewards. The particulars of the charge were that:

1.  After receiving some interference approaching the 800m, he failed to improve his mount between the 800m to the 400m to race in a midfield position as instructed when there was an opportunity to do so; and
2.  Between the 300m to the 200m, he failed to take a run on the outside of SUMMER PRESTIGE when it was reasonable to do so resulting in him running up to the heels of that runner, having to check outwards and thereby lost ground.

When deciding on penalty, the Stewards took into consideration the facts of this case, Cheng’s points of mitigation and his record. Cheng was suspended from riding in races for a period of two months with effect from tomorrow and to expire on August 6, 2010, both days inclusive. He was advised of his right of appeal.