Aify suspended six months and fined

KUALA LUMPUR:  Mar 14, 2013

Jockey Yudanyl Aify has been suspended six months for his ride on TRACK HERO in a Class 5 - 1800m handicap at Sungei Besi on Jan 27.

Starting second favourite, the Australian gelding was always well back in the running and eventually finished fifth to the favourite SPIN CITI.

The stewards concluded an inquiry into his ride at the Selangor Turf Club today. Evidence was taken from Aify who was assisted by Keng Siew Hong, a certified court interpreter.

Aify pleaded guilty to a charge under MRA Rule 44(10) for failing to ride to the satisfaction of the stewards. The particulars of the charge were that the stewards were not satisfied that:

1. From the 600m until the 300m, he rode with sufficient initiative and vigour;

2. Approaching the 200m, his use of the whip was genuine to encourage his horse to go forward and improve; and

3. Racing to the 300m, he did not use better judgement to obtain clear running.

When deciding on penalty, the Stewards took into consideration Aify’s guilty plea, his points of mitigation and previous record. Acting on the provisions of MRA Rule 48(5), the stewards deferred the commencement of Aify’s suspension. Aify was suspended from riding in races for a period of six months with effect from Mar 18 and to Sep 17, both dates inclusive. He was also fined RM20,000 and advised of his right of appeal.