IPOH,  31 August 2007

Jockey Lee Soo Hin has been disqualified for one year for his handling of MANY MANY in a Class 5, Div 1 - 1100m sprint over the straight course here on Aug 12.

MANY MANY (4 b.nz.g Jahafil - Klein by War Hawk II), who has yet to win, finished fourth to ZOHAR in that event.

At the conclusion of an inquiry today, after taking evidence from trainer Evert van Breukelen and jockey Ismadi Ismail, and reviewing the films, Lee was found guilty of a charge under MRA Rule 44(8) in that whist riding MANY MANY in the above-mentioned race, he failed to take all reasonable and permissible measures to ensure that MANY MANY was given full opportunity of winning or of obtaining the best possible placing.

The particulars of the charge were that:

1. From approximately the 1000m mark to about the 600m mark when MANY MANY was traveling well on the bit, Jockey SH Lee restrained his mount and dropped back towards the rear of the field, further back than was necessary which was also contrary to his Trainer’s instructions, which were to race midfield;

2. At approximately the 350m mark when an opening developed on the inside of NICE CAT, whilst in clear running, he restrained MANY MANY for no apparent reason until about the 250m mark;

3. Thereafter at approximately the 150M mark, whilst in clear running, he again steadied MANY MANY for no apparent reason. Thereafter MANY MANY raced on well to the finish with too much work to do.

When deciding on penalty, the Stewards took into account Lee’s previous clean record. After considering the provisions of MRA Rule 44(8)(a), Lee was disqualified for a period of one year with immediate effect from today and to expire on Aug 30, 2008, both days inclusive. He was advised of his right of appeal.

Lee subsequently exercised his right of appeal against the decision and penalty, and applied for a stay of sentence, which was granted. The appeal will be held on a date to be fixed.