PENANG,  17 Oct 2008

Apprentice SS Vanan was today disqualified one year for his handling of MATISSE in a Class 4 - 1400m sprint during a conbined professional/amateur meeting here on Oct 2.

MATISSE finished fourth to DUKE GREG in a race in which all seven runners were trained by P Roslan.

At the conclusion of an inquiry today, after taking evidence from Roslan and SS Vanan, in the presence of his master, trainer Tony Yeoh and reviewing the films, SS Vanan was found guilty of a charge under MRA Rule 44(8) in that whilst riding MATISSE in the above race, he failed to take all reasonable and permissible measures to ensure that MATISSE was given full opportunity of winning or of obtaining the best possible placing.

The particulars of the charge were that:

1. He gave his mount insufficient rein on jumping resulting in it throwing its head up at the start;

2. After receiving some pressure shortly after the start, he restrained his horse continually resulting in it throwing its head up on several occasions until approximately the 200m mark, resulting in it being unable to race to its best advantage; and

3. When his mount was running on strongly, he feigned the use of the whip and failed to ride with sufficient vigour and determination from the 200m mark to the finish.

When deciding on penalty, the Stewards took into consideration the facts of this case, SS Vanan’s record and points of mitigation. After considering the provisions of MRA Rule 44(8)(a), SS Vanan was disqualified for a period of one year with immediate effect and to expire on 16 October 2009, both days inclusive. He was advised of his right of appeal.

In addition, Roslan, the trainer of MATISSE, was warned that in future, he would be expected to approach the Stewards immediately should he have any concern or query with any jockey’s ride on one of his horses, failing which action may be taken against him.