Jockey Rio Burnett was yesterday handed a three-month suspension and fined RM10,000 for his ride on RUSHEY GREEN at Sungei Besi here on Aug 3.

Trained by Frank Maynard, the Australian gelding finished second last of 12 runners in a Class 5 - 1100m sprint.

The Stewards at the Selangor Turf Club concluded an inquiry into the riding of RUSHEY GREEN in the above race. Evidence was taken from Burnett and Maynard and Dr Shri Kanth, Senior Veterinary Surgeon of the Selangor Turf Club.

Burnett was found guilty of a charge under MRA Rule 44(10) for failing to ride to the satisfaction of the Stewards. The particulars of the charge were that after a good jump from barrier 1, he failed to maintain a more forward position and failed to ride his horse with sufficient vigour to maintain his position in the first 400m until racing to about the 600m in the race. The Stewards were also not satisfied with his explanation.

In assessing on penalty, the Stewards took into account Burnett’s mitigating factors and his previous record. He was suspended from riding in races for a period of three months with immediate effect from Aug 12 to Nov 11, both dates inclusive. He was also fined RM10,000 and advised of his right of appeal.

The Stewards noted Trainer F Maynard’s evidence at the inquiry.