Apprentice Thai Yang Singh was today handed a one-year disqualification backdated to May 13 after he returned a positive urine test taken on May 7 in Penang.

The Stewards concluded the inquiry into the above matter today at the Perak Turf Club. Evidence were taken from Thai Yang Singh in the presence of his master, trainer Luke Danis Navaratnam, Sim Hann Liang, Analyst, USains Holding Sdn Bhd and Dr Lam Yee Yoon, Club Medical Officer of the Perak Turf Club.

Thai Yang Singh was found guilty of a charge under MRA Rule 136(3)(b) and the particulars of the charge were that a urine sample coded J-1541, submitted by him on May 7 at the Penang Turf Club May Meeting 2011, on analysis, revealed the presence of "Ketamine" and "Metabolites" which are prohibited substances under the MRA Rules.

In deciding on penalty, the Stewards took into account the nature of the drug and his record. Thai Yang Singh was disqualified for a period of 12 months with immediate effect backdated to May 13 which is the date when he was stood down from riding and to expire on May 12, 2012 (both days inclusive). He was informed of his right of appeal.