Jockey Nicholas Mogana Selvan's appeal against a one-year disqualification and a fine of RM30,000 over his handling of CUT THE DEAL in a Class 3, Div 2 - 1200m sprint in Ipoh on Jan 8 has been dismissed.

(CUT THE DEAL was well supported but managed only sixth of eight runners to PILAH KID in that race.)

At the conclusion of an inquiry on Jan 14, Selvan was found guilty of a charge under MRA Rule 144(2) in that whilst riding CUT THE DEAL in the said race, he failed to take all reasonable and permissible measures to ensure that CUT THE DEAL was given full opportunity of winning or of obtaining the best possible placing in the above race.

After considering the provisions of MRA Rule 144(5), Selvan was disqualified from riding in races for a period of one year and fined the sum of RM30,000. Selvan subsequently lodged an appeal which was heard by the Perak Turf Club Racing Stewards yesterday.

After considering submissions from Selvan’s Counsel and the Chief Stipendiary Steward, and after considering all the evidence, the appeal was dismissed, the one year disqualification and the RM30,000 fine was confirmed.

The penalty was ordered to run consecutively with the current 18 months disqualification which is under appeal, i.e. 15 October 2007 to 14 October 2008, both days inclusive.

However, in the event that Jockey MM Selvan is successful in his appeal against the 18 months disqualification imposed at the Penang Turf Club, the Perak Turf Club Appeal Panel hearing this appeal today reserves the right to reschedule the date of this penalty.

Jockey NM Selvan’s deposit was forfeited.

While awaiting his appeal, Selvan was disqualified 18 months for his handling of SUCCESS VICTORY in Penang on April 9.