Jockey Shahrul Nizam was today handed a 18-month disqualification for his handling of SIR ED who was beaten a neck by SUCCESS FOREVER in a Class 5 - 1100m sprint over the straight course here yesterday.

The Stewards concluded an inquiry into the running and handling of the six-year-old gelding at the Perak Turf Club here today. Evidence was taken from Shahrul, trainer Evert van Breukelen and jockey A Kumarentheran. Law Hong San, an interpreter, assisted in this inquiry.

Shahrul was found guilty of a charge under MRA Rule 44(8) in that whilst riding SIR ED in the above race, he failed to take all reasonable and permissible measures to ensure that SIR ED was given full opportunity of winning.

The particulars of the charge were that:

1. From about the 500m mark to the 400M mark, he unnecessarily steadied his mount and thereafter switched out over the heels of LORD GREG, thereby losing ground when at all material times, there was clear running ahead of him on the inside of LORD GREG; and

2. From about the 400m mark to the finish, he failed to ride his mount with sufficient vigour and determination when his mount was running on strongly.

When deciding on penalty, the Stewards took into consideration the facts of this case, Shahrul’s record and points of mitigation. After considering the provisions of MRA Rule 44(8)(a), Shahrul was disqualified for a period of eighteen months with immediate effect from today and to May 13, 2012, both days inclusive. He was advised of his right of appeal.