Apprentice TR Barnabas was today disqualified one year for his ride on INCREDIBLE SON in the Class 5 - 1100m on the polytrack at Kranji on February 6.

The American gelding, trained by ZL Mok, came from last of 12 runners at the home turn to finish fifth to KIRIN ARISING.

The inquiry into the running and riding of INCREDIBLE SON was concluded today. Barnabas, the rider of INCREDIBLE SON, in the presence of his master, trainer Michael Clements, was found guilty to a charge under MRA Rule 44(8) for failing to take all reasonable and permissible measures to obtain the best possible placing. The particulars of the charge are:

1. in that shortly after the start, he unnecessarily restrained his mount rather than improved his position relative to KIRIN ARISING bearing in mind his instructions when there was an opportunity and it was reasonable and permissible for him to do so; and

2. in that from near the 700m until approaching the 400m, he continually restrained his mount, thereby failing to improve his position when there was an opportunity to improve and it was reasonable and permissible for him to do so.

Barnabas was disqualified for a period of one year with immediate effect from today February 23 and was advised of his right of appeal.

Updated Feb 25:
On Friday, February 25, Barnabas exercised his right of appeal against the decision of the Stipendiary Stewards and the penalty imposed on him. He subsequently applied for a stay of sentence.

After hearing and considering submissions from Barnabas, in the presence of Clements, his application for a stay of sentence was denied by the Stipendiary Stewards. He was advised of his right of appeal.