JOCKEY Pat Cosgrave, who rides regularly for Mike de Kock in Dubai and the UK, has been suspended from riding in races for a period of six months.

The suspension, comfirmed by Emirates Racing Authority Cief Steward John Zucal and the ERA Stewards after an inquiry concluded in Dubai this week, followed Cosgrave’s riding of the De Kock-trained Anaerobio from the 600m-mark to the straightening in Race 8 (Gr 1 Jebel Hatta), over 1800m at Meydan on Super Saturday, 8 March 2014.

Pat Cosgrave has ridden winners for Mike de Kock around the world.

This was the second Stewards hearing into this matter and further evidence was taken from Cosgrave, jockey Christophe Soumillon (Vercingetorix) and De Kock himself. Soumillon gave evidence via telephone link-up.

Cosgrave was found guilty to a charge of improper riding pursuant to ERA 69 (i) – the particulars of the charge being that when riding Anaerobio in the Jebel Hatta, passing the 600m-mark until approaching the 400m-mark, he looked back to his inside on at least three occasions and at the turn into the home straight he intentionally allowed his mount to shift out approximately three horses thereby allowing stablemate Vercingetorix a clear inside run.

In considering penalty the Stewards were cognizant of the following:
• The seriousness of the charge
• The blatant breach of Rule 69 (i) in relation to improper riding
• The detrimental image to racing as a result of this matter
• The Jebel Hatta was a Group 1 race with prize money of $300,000 (US).
• Jockey Cosgrave’s personal circumstances

Under the provisions of ERA 99 (i) this penalty has been back dated to commence on 17 March 2014 and will expire at midnight 17 September 2014.

There was no evidence to implicate either Soumillon or De Kock in relation to Cosgrave’s charge and therefore no action was taken against them.

Sporting Life reports that the ban could stand in racing authorities worldwide.

Paul Struthers, chief executive of the Professional Jockeys Association, said: “I’ve spoken to Pat and we are taking advice on his behalf with the view to a possible appeal. There’s not much more to say at this stage, but we may know more tomorrow.”

Confirming the British Horseracing Authority’s stance, spokesman Robin Mounsey said: “We are aware of the reports regarding the suspension imposed upon Pat Cosgrave.

“Should the ERA request that BHA reciprocate any suspension then we would do so, as is required under our rules.

“An application can be made to BHA for this penalty not to be reciprocated, but no application can be submitted and considered by the disciplinary panel until Cosgrave has exhausted the appeal procedures in Dubai.”

Mike de Kock said on Wednesday: “I will reserve comment on this matter for now. I attended the inquiry and will give my views on the suspension and the procedures that were followed, once the appeal has been concluded.”

Read also: Cosgrave: The Cummings Report