Lou Ho suspended six months and fined

IPOH:  Mar 14, 2012

Jockey Lou Ho was today suspended six months for failing to ride to the satisfaction of the stewards on MY DIAMOND in Penang on Feb 11.

The Australian six-year-old, trained by Nor Azman, finished fifth to FIVE CLAWS in a Class 4 - 1200m handicap.

The stewards concluded an inquiry into the running and handling of the gelding at the Perak Turf Club today. Further evidence was taken from Ho, the rider of MY DIAMOND, Nor Azman, and apprentice Yazid Khalid, in the presence of his acting master Nor Azman.

Ho, the rider of MY DIAMOND, was found guilty of a charge under MRA Rule 44(10) for failing to ride to the satisfaction of the Stewards. The particulars of the charge were that from approximately the 350m to the 50m, he failed to make sufficient effort to improve his position when there were opportunities to do so.

When deciding on penalty, the stewards took into consideration Ho’s previous record and mitigating circumstances. Ho was suspended from riding in races for a period of six months with effect from today to Sep 13, both days inclusive. In addition, he was also fined the sum of RM20,000 and was advised of his right of appeal.

The stewards informed Trainer Nor Azman that they were not entirely happy with his evidence during the inquiry. Nor Azman was warned that he would be expected to be more forthright in his evidence when he is required to appear before the stewards in future.