|
|
Jockey Jai Shankar was
today disqualified one year for his handling of FIGHTER JET (Jetball -
Watermead by Charnwood Forest) in a Class 4 - 1400m sprint here on Sep 27.
Trained by Peter Lee, FIGHTER JET came from last at the home turn to finish
fifth to TIME SPEED.
At the conclusion of an inquiry today, after taking evidence from Lee and
Shankar and reviewing the films, Shankar was found guilty of a charge under
MRA Rule 44(8) in that whilst riding FIGHTER JET in the above race, he
failed to take all reasonable and permissible measures to ensure that
FIGHTER JET was given full opportunity of winning or of obtaining the best
possible placing.
The particulars of the charge were that:
1. From about the 1100m to the 800m, he failed to make any effort to place
his mount in midfield position as instructed, thereby placing his mount
towards the rear of the field;
2. Between the 400m to the 250m, he positioned his mount behind LIGHT OF JOY
and sat quietly behind that runner when there were opportunities to obtain a
clear run; and
3. From the 250m to the finish, he failed to ride with sufficient vigour and
determination, and feigned the use of his whip when his horse was running on
strongly.
When deciding on penalty, the Stewards took into consideration the facts of
this case, Shankar’s record and points of mitigation. After considering the
provisions of MRA Rule 44(8)(a), Shankar was disqualified for a period of
one year with immediate effect from today and to expire on Oct 7, 2009, both
dates inclusive. He was advised of his right of appeal.  |
