Apprentice Tan Chee Kit has been suspended four months for his riding tactics displayed on ALI BABA.

Indentured to Chong Keng Leong, Tan piloted ALI BABA to lead all the way, winning by four and a quarter lengths in the Superiority Handicap (Class 5 - 1200m) in Ipoh on Jul 27.

Following the win, the Stewards open an inquiry into his riding tactics on the horses in previous races.

At the conclusion of an inquiry at the Perak Turf Club yesterday, Tan, in the presence of his master Trainer Chong Keng Leong, was found guilty to three charges under MRA Rule 44(10) for failing to ride to the satisfaction of the Stewards, emanating from evidence from the above inquiry, in that in a Class 4 - 1200m handicap in Ipoh on Jun 30, in a Class 4 - 1100m sprint in Penang on Jul 7 and a Class 4 - 1100m handicap over the straight course in Ipoh on Jul 21 when he rode ALI BABA in these races, he made insufficient effort in the early stages to try and lead or sit in a position where in contention as per his riding instructions when there was an opportunity to do so.

When deciding on penalty, the Stewards took into account Tan’s riding record and mitigating factors. Tan’s licence to ride in races was suspended for a period of four months on each of the three charges, which are to be served concurrently.