KUALA LUMPUR,  4 Dec 2009

Apprentice J Nizam has been suspended two months for his handling of DON'T TOUCH ME in a Maiden - 1200m sprint last Saturday.

DON'T TOUCH ME, trained by V Nathan, was always well back in the running, finishing ninth to AUSSIE SON.

At the conclusion of an inquiry today, Nizam, in the presence of his master, trainer V Nathan, 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:

1. Whilst riding DON’T TOUCH ME in the above race, he took his horse wide rounding the turn between the 800m to the 400m, thereby covering unnecessary ground; and

2. At about the 150m, he failed to take a run between SINAR PERMATA and SKY POWER when there was an opportunity to do so.

When deciding on penalty, the Stewards took into consideration the facts of this case, Nizam’s points of mitigation and his record. Nizam was suspended from riding in races for a period of two months with effect from Monday, Dec 7 and to expire on Feb 6, both days inclusive. He was advised of his right of appeal.