IPOH,  27 Feb 2009

Jockey Lim Hock Kheng was today suspended four months for his handling of JERAM NATURAL in a Class 4 - 1400m handicap in Penang last Sunday.

JERAM NATURAL, who was well-backed, finished seventh to RIVER FUJI.

At the conclusion of an inquiry today at the Perak Turf Club, Lim, the rider of JERAM NATURAL, pleaded guilty to a charge under MRA Rule 44(10) for failing to ride to the satisfaction of the Stewards. The particulars of the charge were that passing the 1000m to the 400m, he failed to make sufficient effort to place his mount in a more forward position as instructed.

When deciding on penalty, the Stewards took into consideration the facts of this case, Lim’s points of mitigation and his record. Lim was suspended from riding in races for a period of four months with effect from March 2 and to expire on July 1, 2009, both days inclusive. He was advised of his right of appeal.