Jockey Suhairi Sani has been suspended six months and apprentice Tan Chee Kit ousted three months after the conclusion of two separate inquiries here in the last two days. 

ON Wednesday, the Stewards at the Perak Turf Club concluded an inquiry into the ride of ALL GOOD, ridden by Sani, in a Class 4 - 1400m handicap in Ipoh on Jul 29 in which the New Zealand gelding finished fourth.

Evidence was taken from trainer LN Danis and S Sani. Sani pleaded guilty to a charge under MRA Rule 44(10) for failing to ride to the satisfaction of the Stewards, in that from the 600m to the 350m, he permitted his mount ALL GOOD to drift outwards and cover unnecessary ground when there was an opportunity for him to maintain his position on the outside of THREE THOUGHTS which was racing on the fence.

In deciding the penalty, the Stewards took into consideration his guilty plea, his previous record under the same rule and mitigating factors, Sani’s licence to ride in races was suspended for a period of six months, from 22 August and to Feb 21 February 2013 (both dates inclusive). In addition, Sani was also fined a sum of RM20,000 and was informed of his right of appeal.

Tan was charged under MRA Rule 44(8) when the Stewards concluded an inquiry into the ride of ALI BABA by the apprentice in a Restricted Maiden - 1400m event in Ipoh on April 14 in which the Australian gelding finish third.

After careful consideration, the Stewards were of the opinion that the charge under MRA Rule 44(8) cannot be sustained, however they amended the charge to one under MRA Rule 44(10).

Tan, in the presence of his master, trainer Chong Keng Leong, was found guilty to the amended charge under MRA Rule 44(10) for failing to ride to the satisfaction of the Stewards in that from approximately the 700m, he failed to ride his mount ALI BABA with sufficient effort to the finish.