IPOH,  April 25, 2010

Apprentice Lam Siew Leong, who only began riding last year and has yet to land a winner, has been disqualified one year for his handling of WISEMAN in the Restricted Maiden - 1200m sprint here today.

The Monolith three-year-old, who found one to beat in his initial two starts, came from a long way back to finish third to COLOURLAND KID and an inquiry was opened and concluded immediately.

After taking evidence from Lam, the rider of WISEMAN, in the presence of his master, trainer SB Tan, and reviewing the films, Lam pleaded guilty to a charge under MRA Rule 44(8) in that whilst riding WISEMAN in this race, he failed to take all reasonable and permissible measures to ensure that WISEMAN was given full opportunity of winning or of obtaining the best possible placing.

The particulars of the charge were that:

1. Between the 450m to the 250m, he failed to take a gap between PERHAPS and SUN JET when there was an opportunity to do so;
2. Between the 250m to the 150m, he elected to position his mount behind BLAZING WARRIOR when at that material time, there was a clear run on his outside; and
3. From the 150m to the finish when in clear running, he made no attempt to ride his horse out with sufficient vigour and determination.

When deciding on penalty, the Stewards took into consideration the facts of this case, Lam’s record, his guilty plea and points of mitigation. After considering the provisions of MRA Rule 44(8)(a), App Lam was disqualified for a period of one year with immediate effect from today and to expire on April 24, 2011, both days inclusive. He was advised of his right of appeal.