Semela lands 90-day ban

Work rider Francis Semela received a 90-day suspension following an inquiry by the National Horseracing Authority (NHA) held at the Vaal Racecourse on Tuesday 29 August.

Semela, who was assisted by James Maree, was charged with a contravention of Rule 62.2.1, in that he failed to ensure he took “all reasonable and permissible measures” to ensure Tapenzee was given a full opportunity to win, or to obtain the best possible placing, in Race 1 run at Vaal Racecourse on 17 August.

The particulars of the case are as follows:

a) At the 1200m Semela encouraged Tapenzee around the turn, against the instructions of trainer Adam Azzie;

b) At the 1000m Semela placed Tapenzee at the rear of the field after hanging out around the turn and, by doing so, lost considerable ground to the field;

c) Between the 800m and the 400m Semela made no attempt to make up ground on the field when Tapenzee showed no signs of being difficult to assist;

d) Between the 400m and 200m Semela, after encouraging Tapenzee to make up ground, took a tighter hold of the reins to restrict this gelding from running on.

Semela pleaded guilty to the charge and was found guilty of the charge. The Inquiry Board imposed a penalty of a suspension from riding in races for a period of 90 days.

Semela has the right of appeal against the penalty imposed.