Mark Zahra and Blake Shinn, two of Australia’s top jockeys, have been handed suspensions following their winning rides at Caulfield’s Zipping Classic Day.
Both riders received 14-meeting bans for causing interference during their respective races, with the suspensions commencing on Monday, December 9.
Blake Shinn was first to face stewards after his narrow victory aboard Kavader in the 2400-meter Vale Elvstroem Benchmark 84.
The interference was alleged to have occurred near the 250-metre mark when Shinn attempted to navigate through a gap.
Despite pleading not guilty to the charge, stewards ruled against him, imposing the two-week suspension.
Caulfield Race 3 Replay – Kavador (Jokey: Blake Shinn)
Mark Zahra was also penalised for interference during his ride on New Energy, the winner of the Group 3 Eclipse Stakes.
The incident occurred 150 metres from the finish line when Zahra made a decisive move that impacted another runner.
Unlike Shinn, the 42-year-old jockey admitted fault and accepted the suspension without contest.
Caulfield Eclipse Stakes Race Relay – New Energy (Jockey: Mark Zahra)
Both suspensions will allow the riders to fulfill their commitments at the upcoming Hong Kong International Races next Sunday.
Blake Shinn is scheduled to ride Antino in the Hong Kong Mile, while Mark Zahra is set to take the reins on Without A Fight in the Hong Kong Vase.
The bans will see the riders sidelined until December 23, after which they will be eligible to return to competition.
Horse racing news