KUALA LUMPUR,  15 August 2007

Jockey S Sani has failed in his appeal against a six-month suspension for his handling of KIKO'S LUCK (3 b.nz.g Kashani - Emanation by Iades) at Kuala Lumpur on June 24.

The Tony Yeoh-trained gelding came from the rear bunch at the home turn to beat CUTTING EDGE by a short head in a Class 4, Div 4 - 1400m handicap but was relegated to second after the rider of the second horse filed a protest for interference.

At the conclusion of an inquiry on July 6, Sani, the rider of KIKO’S LUCK, pleaded guilty to a charge under MRA Rule 44(10) for failing to ride to the satisfaction of the Stewards whilst riding KIKO’S LUCK in the home straight in the above race. The particulars of the charge were that shortly after the 400m mark in the home straight, his whip use was ineffective, his ride was weak and he did not make sufficient effort to prevent KIKO’S LUCK from drifting inwards, thereby bumping CUTTING EDGE onto FLAIR FOR MUSIC in the concluding stages of the race.

Sani was suspended from riding in races for a period of six months. He appealed against the the severity of the sentence but a stay of sentence was not granted.

The Selangor Turf Club Stewards heard the appeal today.

After considering submissions from Sani and the Chief Stipendiary Steward, and after considering all the evidence, the appeal was dismissed and the six-month suspension was confirmed to commence from July 8 and to expire on Jan 8, 2008, both days inclusive. Sani's deposit was forfeited.