Apprentice Tham Kin Chong was today suspended six months for his ride on BLACK AND WHITE in the Tunku Gold Cup at Sungei Besi here on Feb 22.

The Australian four-year-old, trained by Wong Fong Fatt, finished third, beaten a neck and half a length, to BALOTELLI in the 1200m sprint.

The Stewards today concluded an inquiry into Tham's ride on BLACK AND WHITE. Evidence was taken from Tham, in the presence of his master Trainer Nor Azman, and Wong.

After viewing the official patrol films of this event and previous race starts of Tham’s riding styles, and considering the evidence tendered, Tham 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 he failed to ride to the satisfaction of the Stewards in particular from the 300m by changing his riding action from his normal proven riding style to forcing his weight backwards and bumping up and down which in the opinion of the Stewards, got the horse and himself unbalanced. Tham was of the opinion this helped the horse’s chances.

In assessing the penalty, the Stewards took into consideration Tham’s guilty plea, mitigating factors, previous riding record and his submissions on penalty.  Tham was suspended from riding in races for a period of six months with effect from May 2 and to Nov 1, both dates inclusive, after he has served his current two-month suspension for his ride on SPEED FLYING. He was also fined RM50,000 and advised of his right of appeal