Fairway's Turf Online

Apprentice Cheng suspended three months

PENANG: May 13, 2011

Apprentice Cheng Han Kok was today suspended three months for his handling of YARGU in a Class 5 - 1400m sprint here last Sunday.

YARGU came from a long way back early to finish second to TIENJIN WARRIOR, beaten two and a half lengths.

At the Penang Turf Club today, the Stewards concluded an inquiry into the running and handling of YARGU in the above race. Evidence was taken from Cheng, the rider of YARGU, in the presence of his master, trainer JH Tan, trainer Barry Brogan and jockey Cheng Ke Ten. Ms Chan Lee Fong, a Senior Court Interpreter, assisted apprentice Cheng in this inquiry.

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 whilst riding YARGU in this race, he failed to make sufficient effort to improve his mount when there were opportunities to do so from the 500m to near the 250m.

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 three months with effect from Monday, May 16 to Aug 15, both days inclusive. He was also fined the sum of RM20,000 and was advised of his right of appeal.