Lou Ho suspended six months and fined

IPOH:  Jul 19, 2014

Jockey Lou Ho was yesterday suspended six months and fined RM40,000 for his ride on HAPPY SURPRISE in a Class 5 - 1700m handicap in Penang on May 31.

The Australian seven-year-old finished seventh to EMPRESS GIOK after being in the rear bunch early.

The Stewards concluded an inquiry into the ride of Ho in the above race at the Perak Turf Club yesterday. Evidence was taken from Ho and Loh Kok Kuen, the trainer of HAPPY SURPRISER.

After considering all the evidence and viewing the films, Ho was found guilty to a charge under MRA Rule 44(10) for failing to ride to the satisfaction of the Stewards.

The particulars of the charge are that:

1) From the 400m to the 300m, he failed to make sufficient effort to improve his position when there was an opportunity to do so between GEORGIE BOY (App KC Tham) and LA FAMILIA (J Shankar);

2) From the 250m to the 100m, he failed to ride with sufficient vigour to the satisfaction of the Stewards.

When deciding on penalty, the Stewards took into consideration the facts of the case, Ho’s riding record and mitigating factors. Ho was suspended for a period of six months. Acting under the provision of MRA Rule 48(5), the Stewards deferred the commencement of Ho’s suspension to take effect from Monday, Jul 28 and to Jan 27, 2015, both days inclusive. In addition, he was also fined a sum of RM40,000 and was advised of his right of appeal.