Apprentice jockey M Akmazani finds himself in hot water once again following an inquiry held by the Stewards on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, regarding his riding performance aboard BUREAUCRAT in Race 1 on Saturday, February 24.
Akmazani had only just returned to the saddle in mid-February after serving a two-month suspension. Unfortunately for him, he now faces double that time as a result of the Stewards’ decisions.
Representatives from all relevant parties were present during the inquiry, including Akmazani, represented by his Master, Trainer J Tan, and T Mahadi, Trainer of BUREAUCRAT.
Following the inquiry, Akmazani was found guilty of breaching MRA Rule 44(10) for failing to ride to the satisfaction of Stewards. Specifically, it was noted that from the 200m mark, when a favorable opportunity emerged between BIONICS ridden by T Krisna and BENBO piloted by B Queiroz, Akmazani failed to display adequate vigor and determination until the finish line.
Upon assessing the penalty, the Stewards took into account the nature of the charge, Akmazani’s disciplinary history, precedent penalties, and his personal circumstances.
Consequently, Akmazani’s License to participate in races has been suspended for a period of four months, effective from Sunday, 10 March 2024, to Tuesday, 09 July 2024, inclusive. Akmazani was duly informed of his Right of Appeal.
Furthermore, it was clarified that the penalty will be served consecutively following the completion of his suspension, which spans from Sunday, 25 February 2024, to Monday, 09 March 2024, encompassing two Singapore Race Days.
In response to the penalty, on Friday, 01 March 2024, App M Akmazani exercised his Right of Appeal against the severity of the imposed penalty. Additionally, he submitted an application for a Stay of Penalty, the decision on which will be deliberated by the Panel of Stewards.
The date for the Appeal hearing is yet to be determined and will be communicated in due course.
