Image: Steve Hart

Jockey Jamie Kah has been found guilty by the Victorian Racing Tribunal (VRT) of failing to give her horse, Let’sfacethemusic, every opportunity to secure the best possible placing in last month’s Group 3 McNeil Stakes at Caulfield.

The tribunal has handed down a three-week suspension, effective from September 28 to October 20, causing Kah to miss major upcoming races, including the Caulfield Guineas and Caulfield Cup.

Initially, Racing Victoria (RV) stewards sought a suspension of at least six weeks, citing Kah’s failure to take a gap between horses from the 175m to 100m mark and her lack of vigour near the 75-metre mark.

Deputy chairperson Kathryn Kings stated, “We are satisfied that this ride did not involve a mere error of judgement… it was a departure from the standard of racing to be expected of a rider of your standing.”

Kah, who pleaded not guilty, defended her actions by saying, “Out there, I didn’t feel like the gap was open,” referencing Let’sfacethemusic’s unruly behaviour and a prior incident where the horse locked its jaw.

Her legal representative, Matthew Stirling, emphasised the risks involved, stating, “The horse was literally dangerous in his racing manners.”

Damien Oliver dissects Jamie Kah's ride aboard Let'sfacethemusic which is the subject of a stewards' inquiry 🧐#TheWrap pic.twitter.com/QpULKYrbak

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