Horse Racing

10 Day Ban For Favourite’s Jockey

Amateur Jockey James Banks was slapped with a ten day ban – dates to be advised – after yesterday’s second division Amateur Riders’ Handicap at Wolverhampton. His ride on the Paul Howling-trained, 4/1 favourite of the meeting Pipers Piping, saw Banks criticised for a slow and belated start, leaving the championed horse in a poor seventh place.

Mr Banks explained he was not aware of the new starting procedure, leaving him unprepared. Although he feels the imposition of a ten day ban is “harsh”, Banks has accepted the ruling and apologised for his short comings, putting his difficulties at yesterday’s race down to a lack of experience.

The Amateur Riders’ Handicap saw Sheridan-trained Albero Di Giuda take the win with odds 6/1. It was the first win – and first official race meeting – for 17-year-old amateur jockey Philip Prince. Prince was thrilled with his win, having only recently obtained his rider’s permit. The proceedings were slowed down by controversy over Prince’s partial deafness; the talented young rider was born without his left ear. Now, with a permit and his first win under his belt, Prince hopes to get a chance to race again as soon as possible.