KUALA LUMPUR,  9 February 2008

Jockey KW Leong is now serving a one-year disqualification after he withdrew his appeal.

Leong was on Jan 27 disqualified one year at the conclusion of an inquiry into the running and handling of VICTORY MELANG in the Class 5, Div 5 - 1400m handicap on Jan 26.

VICTORY MELANG, ridden by Leong and trained by K H Ng, trailed all the way in 14th place.

Leong exercised his right of appeal on Jan 28 and applied for a stay of sentence, which after a hearing on Feb 1, was not granted.

Later the same day, Leong applied to withdraw his appeal.

After consideration, the Racing Stewards acceded to his application, however his deposit was forfeited. His disqualification commenced on Jan 27 and is to expire on Jan 26, 2009, both day inclusive.