SINGAPORE,  1 January 2008

Jockey Oscar Chavez will serve a three-month suspension for reckless riding on STEALTH in the S$200,000 Committee's Prize (1600m) run on Dec 2.

At the conclusion of an inquiry on Dec 6, Chavez, the rider of STEALTH, was found guilty to a charge of reckless riding under MRA Rule 44(9)(b) in that whilst riding STEALTH in the above race, near the 200m, he directed his mount to the inside of WORLD AIRLINES (R Lim) when there was insufficient room and thereafter continued to ride his mount along resulting in ZINLY (App A Fiezan) being severely crowded and checked, thereby showing little or no regard to the consequences of his actions and / or risks to others by his riding and in particular, the danger of injury to or interference with other horses or rider.

When deciding on penalty, the Stewards took into account his record and the degree of interference and recklessness. Chavez was suspended from riding in races for a period of three months and was advised of his right of appeal.

Chavez subsequently exercised his right of appeal against the decision of the Stipendiary Stewards and the penalty imposed on him. On application, he was granted a stay of sentence.

Today, the Race Meeting Stewards acceded to a request from Chavez to withdraw his appeal against the decision of the Stipendiary Stewards and the penalty imposed on him. His deposit was forfeited.

The Race Meeting Stewards have determined that the suspension from riding in races for a period of three months will therefore be with immediate effect from today and will run until Mar 31, both dates inclusive.