On Tuesday, March 5, 2024, the Stewards concluded an Inquiry into Jockey R Iskandar’s riding of SPIETH HEROINE. Initial evidence was taken from Jockey R Iskandar on Saturday, March 2, 2024. After further evidence was gathered from both Jockey R Iskandar and Trainer J Peters, the trainer of SPIETH HEROINE, Jockey R Iskandar was found guilty of a charge under MRA Rule 44(10), which states: “Any jockey who fails to ride his horse to the satisfaction of the Stewards may be warned, fined and/or suspended.”
The charge specifies that between the 300m and 200m, he attempted to shift his mount outwards despite clear running available to him on the inside of TOP CONFIDENCE (App K Faiz). Subsequently, he had to check his mount near the 250m to avoid the heels of TOP CONFIDENCE and PACIFIC SPIRIT (App Clyde Leck). The Stewards deemed his decision not to shift to the inside unsatisfactory given his experience and level of riding ability.
When determining the penalty, the Stewards considered the nature of the charge, his record, personal circumstances, and submissions from Jockey R Iskandar, who stated he had been engaged to ride at the Singapore Race Meeting on Saturday, March 9, 2024. Consequently, Jockey R Iskandar was suspended for a period of four months, effective from Sunday, March 10, 2024, to Tuesday, July 9, 2024, inclusive. He was advised of his Right of Appeal.
On Thursday, March 7, 2024, Jockey R Iskandar exercised his Right of Appeal against the decision of the Stewards and the penalty imposed on him. He subsequently applied for a Stay of Penalty. After consideration on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, his application for a Stay of Sentence was granted by the Panel of Stewards. The Appeal Panel’s Hearing of the Appeal concluded on Tuesday, April 9, 2024.
After reviewing all evidence and submissions from Jockey R Iskandar and the Chief Stipendiary Steward, the Appeal Panel dismissed the Appeal against conviction and upheld the penalty imposed by the Panel of Stewards. Jockey R Iskandar was suspended for a period of four months, effective from Monday, April 22, 2024, to Wednesday, August 21, 2024, both dates inclusive. His deposit was forfeited. The penalty will be served consecutively following the completion of his suspension from Sunday, April 14, 2024, to Sunday, April 21, 2024, both dates inclusive (one Singapore Race Day).
