IPOH,  6 March 2009

Jockey Poobalan Rangasamy was today disqualified 18 months for his handling of BRING IN FORTUNES in the Class 5 - 1100m sprint over the straight course here last Saturday.

BRING IN FORTUNES (Fiery Match - Blonde Glory by Humam) came from a long way back to finish fifth to KAKA.

At the conclusion of an inquiry today at the Perak Turf Club, after taking evidence from trainer Evert van Breukelen and Poobalan, and reviewing the films, Poobalan pleaded guilty to a charge under MRA Rule 44(8) in that whilst riding BRING IN FORTUNES in the above race, he failed to take all reasonable and permissible measures to ensure that BRING IN FORTUNES was given full opportunity of winning or of obtaining the best possible placing.

The particulars of the charge were that:

1. After jumping on terms with the field, he failed to make any effort to place his mount in a forward position as instructed;

2. Between the 900m and the 150m, he sat quietly on his mount, making no attempt to make up ground on the leaders when there was no evidence that the horse was laying in badly;

3. At about the 150m, he directed his horse inwards to race behind SPEED WANG for no apparent reason when there was clear running on his outside which was available to him at all times; and

4. Between the 100m and the finish, he failed to ride with sufficient vigour and determination while his horse was running on strongly.

When deciding on penalty, the Stewards took into consideration the facts of this case, Poobalan’s record and points of mitigation. After considering the provisions of MRA Rule 44(8)(a), Poobalan was disqualified for a period of eighteen months with immediate effect from today and to expire on Sep 5, 2010, both days inclusive. He was advised of his right of appeal.

In addition, Evert van Breukelen, the trainer of BRING IN FORTUNES, 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 any of his horses, failing which action may be taken against him.