Rayan Wilson banned for 25 days

The operations strewards at a hearing on Tuesday imposed the maximum suspension of 25 racedays on jockey Rayan Wilson for his failure to ride ROYAL IMPACT on its merit in the seventh race at Caymanas Park last Saturday.

ROYAL IMPACT was in receipt of an indifferent ride from Wilson. The Collin Blair-trained five-year-old horse went 'miles' wide entering the straight but still managed to finish third in the 1700-metre race won by 13-1 upsetter LUX.

In addition to the lengthy suspension, the stewards slapped a $10,000 fine on the jockey, who is popularly called 'Chin'.

His suspension takes effect on Wednesday, June 23.

Francis suspended

Meanwhile, at the same hearing on Tuesday, title-chasing jockey Paul 'Country' Francis, who rode HEARTOFACHAMPION in the 11th race (Lotto Classic for the Governor's Cup) on Saturday, May 29, was suspended for three racedays for causing interference to highly fancied JUNIOR MINISTER leaving the 600-metre point. His suspension will take effect on Wednesday, June 23, which means Francis will be able to ride in the Derby on Saturday, June 19.

Apprentice Aaron Chatrie, who rode FACE TRACKER in the eighth race on May 29, picked up a one-day suspension for careless riding, this for causing interference to highly fancied CLASSICAL BABE and MARLEE'S MERIT in the last 200 metres. Chatrie's suspension embraces June 23.

- O.C.