From Selangor on Saturday, the Stewards inquired into Jockey Z Khairil’s riding of BAGHDAD in race 3. Evidence was taken from Jockey Z Khairil and Trainer NM Selvan, the rider and trainer of BAGHDAD respectively.
After considering the evidence and also reviewing the performance of BAGHDAD, Jockey Z Khairil 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 being that although instructed that BAGHDAD be ridden in its customary “on pace” position that he had restrained the gelding shortly after the start and he had failed to keep up with the pace whereby BAGHDAD was in a mid-to-rearward position until straightening, thereby diminishing its chances.
The Stewards took into consideration Jockey MM Z Khairil’s guilty plea, riding record, mitigating factors and his submissions on penalty. He was suspended from riding in races for a period of three (3) months with effect from 18 September 2023 and to expire on 17 December 2023, both dates inclusive. He was advised of his Right of Appeal.
Trainer NM Selvan, the Trainer of BAGHDAD, was advised by the Stewards that they had serious concerns related to the fact the on four (4) occasions, they had questioned the running and handling of his horses with two (2) of those occasions resulting in the suspension of riders under serious charges. He was advised that it was expected that all his runners must be ridden so as to be fully tested and should there be further occurrences of issues of question, that a report would be made to the Committee of the SLTC related to the matter.
Source: Selangor Turf Club
