The National Horseracing Authority confirms that at an inquiry held at Durbanville Racecourse on 13 October 2020, Jockey Grant van Niekerk was charged with a contravention of Rule 62.2.7.  The particulars being that as the rider of AUTUMN SKY, he failed to ensure that he did not cause interference to PERFECT TRUST, when he directed his mount outwards at the 400m in Race 2 at Durbanville Racecourse on 13 October 2020.

 Jockey van Niekerk pleaded guilty to the charge.

The Inquiry Board accepted his plea and found Jockey van Niekerk guilty of the charge.

After considering all the video evidence, his riding record and all mitigating factors, the Inquiry Board imposed a penalty of a suspension from riding in races for a period of 7 days.

Jockey van Niekerk has the Right of Appeal against the penalty imposed.