Apprentice BN Kumar was today handed a two-month suspension for his handling of MAGIC BABY in a Class 5 - 1200m sprint in Ipoh last Saturday.

MAGIC BABY (Zabeel - Davilora Dane by Danehill), trained by Kevin Coetzee, was fairly well-backed and finished seventh to BLESSINGINDISGUISE.

The Stewards today concluded an inquiry into the ride of MAGIC BABY. Evidence was taken from Kumar, the rider of MAGIC BABY, in the presence of his master Coetzee.

Kumar pleaded guilty to a charge under MRA Rule 44(10) for failing to ride to the satisfaction of the Stewards in that from approximately the 200m to the winning post, he failed to ride MAGIC BABY with sufficient vigour.

When deciding on penalty, the Stewards took into account Kumar’s guilty plea, his disciplinary record and mitigating factors. Kumar’s licence to ride in races was suspended for a period of two months to take effect from today to May 7, both dates inclusive, to be served concurrently with his current suspension. He was advised of his right of appeal.

(Kumar is currently serving a two-month suspension for his ride on RECORD TIME.)

Coetzee was warned to give adequate instructions to his riders in future, failing which further action may be taken against him.

Meanwhile, jockey Jackson Low and trainer Evert van Breukelen both withdrew their appeals.