Bang-in-form jockey Ruzaini Supien, currently third in the table with six winners, will be out action for one month after copping a one-month suspension for his handling of KIM SALUTE in a Class 5 - 1100m handicap at Sungei Besi here today.

The Australian gelding, a winner of six races, finished seventh to JAI HO.

Following the race, the Stewards took evidence from trainer Mohd Sukri and Ruzaini into the racing tactics that were adopted on KIM SALUTE in today’s event.

At the conclusion of an inquiry, after viewing the official patrol films of this event and considering the evidence tendered, Ruzaini 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 did not give sufficient rein when jumping out of the barrier and he settled at the rear of the field. The Stewards believed that in the home straight, he failed to show sufficient vigour in particular over the final 300m of the event.

In assessing the penalty, the Stewards took into consideration Ruzaini’s guilty plea, mitigating factors, previous riding record and his submissions on penalty. He was suspended from riding in races for a period of one month from tomorrow to Mar 13, both dates inclusive. He was advised of his right of appeal.