Apprentice Chung Wah Thong, who has yet to boot home a winner at Kranji after relocating to Singapore this year, has been disqualified one year for his handling of REAL HERO at Kranji on Feb 19.

The Irish gelding, trained by Alwin Tan, came from last at the home turn to finish third to BEAT TO QUARTERS in a Class 5, Div 1 - 1200m sprint on the polytrack.

The inquiry into the running and riding of REAL HERO was concluded yesterday. After taking evidence from Chung, his master, trainer Leslie Khoo, and Tan, Chung was found guilty to a charge under MRA Rule 44(8) for failing to take all reasonable and permissible measures to obtain the best possible placing. The particulars of the charge are:

1. in that from the 600m to the 450m, he failed to improve his position when there was an opportunity and it was reasonable to do so;

2. in that from near the 450m to approaching the 250m, he failed to ride with sufficient vigour and determination; and

3. in that from the 200m to the concluding stages, he failed to ride with sufficient vigour and determination.

When deciding on penalty, the Stewards took into account the nature of the charge and his record. Chung was disqualified for a period of one year with immediate effect from yesterday tp Mar 8, 2017, both dates inclusive. He was advised of his right of appeal.

Chung rode for four seasons in Malaysia, chalking up 30 wins before making the move south.