Jockey Sani Suhairi was today handed a six-month suspension for his handling of HOONG WAN in a home based race for Class 5 horses over 1300m here last Saturday.

The Stewards concluded an inquiry into Sani’s ride on HOONG WAN in the above race today. Further evidence was taken from Sani and trainer James Barry Brogan, the rider and trainer of HOONG WAN respectively.

Sani 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:

1. The Stewards were not satisfied as to his actions in the straight and in the vicinity of the 400m;

2. The Stewards were not satisfied with the efforts he made in drawing the whip; and

3. The Stewards were not satisfied with his vigour over the final 100m of the event.

When deciding on penalty, the Stewards took into consideration Sani’s points of mitigation and previous record. Acting on the provisions of MRA Rule 48(5), the Stewards deferred the commencement S Sani’s suspension. He was suspended from riding in races for a period of six months with effect from Monday, May 19 to Nov 18, both dates inclusive. He was advised of his right of appeal.