On Monday, 9 September 2024, at SLTC, the Stewards concluded an inquiry into the running and handling of READY TO SEVENLUCK, taking evidence from Jockey WW Cheah and Trainer R Lines, the respective rider and trainer of the horse.
After reviewing footage of the race and considering the evidence presented, the Stewards found Jockey WW Cheah guilty of Incompetent Riding under MRA Rule 44(9)(b)(iii). The charge specified that in Race 10 on Sunday, 1 September 2024, his riding of READY TO SEVENLUCK fell below the standard of skill and judgement expected from a reasonably competent rider. His excessive restraint of the horse between the 1000M mark and the entry into the straight was so severe that it prevented the horse from taking advantage of its early position, ultimately compromising its performance in the middle and final stages of the race.
In determining the penalty, the Stewards considered Jockey WW Cheah’s guilty plea, mitigating factors, his previous riding record, and his submissions on penalty. He was suspended from riding in races for six (6) weeks, with the suspension deferred, commencing on 16 September 2024 and expiring on 27 September 2024, inclusive. He was informed of his Right of Appeal.
Additionally, Trainer R Lines was fined RM1000 for misconduct under MRA Rule 152(5)(a), for inappropriate conduct on at least three occasions during the inquiry.
No.6 READY TO SEVENLUCK (Jockey WW Cheah) had an advantageous lead early
On Thursday, 12 September 2024, at SLTC, the Stewards concluded an inquiry into the running and handling of TIN’S MACHINE, during which evidence was provided by Jockey KC Tham and Trainer WC Lim, the rider and trainer of the horse.
Upon reviewing race footage and considering the evidence presented, the Stewards found Jockey KC Tham guilty of Incompetent Riding under MRA Rule 44(9)(b)(iii). The charge stemmed from Race 10 on Sunday, 8 September 2024, where his riding fell below the standard of skill and judgement expected from a reasonably competent rider. Specifically:
1 His riding lacked urgency, vigour, and rhythm, causing TIN’S MACHINE to lose position between the 500M and 350M marks.
2 His use of the whip in the straight was weak, lacking in both vigour and rhythm.
3 His decision to remove his face mask was unjustified under the circumstances and disadvantaged TIN’S MACHINE.
No 10 TIN’S MACHINE (Jockey KC Tham’s Questionable Actions Caught Stewards’ Attention)
In determining the penalty, the Stewards considered mitigating factors, Jockey KC Tham’s previous riding record, and his submissions on penalty. He was suspended from riding in races for one (1) month, with the suspension deferred, starting on 16 September 2024 and expiring on 15 October 2024, inclusive. He was informed of his Right of Appeal.
