Jockey Lee Koon Lim was today disqualified one year for his handling of SMALL TIGER in a Class 4 - 1400m handicap here yesterday. The Australian five-year-old finished sixth to LAZAROO.

At the conclusion of an inquiry today, after taking evidence from Wong Kong Fatt and Lee, the trainer and rider of SMALL TIGER respectively, and reviewing the films, Lee pleaded guilty to a charge under MRA Rule 44(8) as read with 44(8)(a) in that whilst riding SMALL TIGER in the above race, he failed to take all reasonable and permissible measures to ensure that SMALL TIGER was given full opportunity of winning or of obtaining the best possible placing. The particulars of the charge were as follows:

(1) After a slow start, he failed to make sufficient effort to encourage SMALL TIGER to make up the lost ground and thereafter raced at the rear of the field, tailed off, until entering the home straight;

(2) In the home straight, he rode SMALL TIGER with insufficient vigour and determination when the gelding was running on.

When deciding on penalty, the Stewards took into consideration the facts of this case and Lee’s previous clean record. Lee was disqualified for a period of one year with immediate effect from tomorrow to Jan 31, 2017, both days inclusive. In addition, he was fined a sum of RM10,000. He was advised of his right of appeal.