We refer to an article published in “Mumbai Mirror” by Usman Rangeela, which states the Stewards “blundered” in disqualifying Star Trainer, and suggested as the “offensive” act did not cause a material difference to the result of the race, the horse should not have been disqualified and only the jockey given “exemplary” punishment.
Mr Rangeela fails to note that the Stewards deemed Richard Hughes’ riding to be “foul”, and the consequences that arise from foul riding is disqualification of the horse. The norms followed by Stewards are published in the Racing Calendar which states, “If the Stewards find a jockey guilty of foul riding, his mount SHALL be disqualified, and the jockey will be subjected to such severe punishments as the Stewards in their discretion may decide.” The important word in the rule is “shall”, giving the Stewards no discretion not to disqualify the horse, once the riding is categorized as “foul”.
We are making no comment on the punishment to the jockey, as the subject is sub-judice.
