The National Horseracing Authority (NHA) confirms that an Appeal was heard at its offices in Johannesburg on Friday, 24 November 2023. 

Background 

At an Inquiry held in Durban on 30 August 2023, Jockey S Khumalo was charged with a contravention of Rule 62.2.7.  The particulars being that as the rider of TRAFALGAR SQUARE, he failed to ensure that he did not cause interference to DONTSHOOTTHEBARMAN at the 300m, in Race 6 at Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse on 16 August 2023. 

Jockey Khumalo pleaded not guilty but was found guilty of the charge. 

The Inquiry Board, after considering the mitigating factors presented, imposed a penalty of a suspension from riding in races for a period of seven days. 

Jockey Khumalo was given the Right of Appeal against both the finding and the penalty imposed.

The Appeal Board, after having heard the submissions put forward in this matter, both on behalf of the Appellant and on behalf of the Respondent, upheld the penalty and the original judgement stands, with no amendment.  The suspension period is from 3 to 9 December 2023.

Jockey Khumalo’s Appeal fee is to be refunded.