One of the country’s top workriders, Francis Semela, has been hit with a 90-day ban by the National Horseracing Authority for failing to give his mount a full opportunity to win in a race at the Vaal in August. The inquiry resulted from Semela’s partnering of Tapanzee in the first race at the Vaal on August 17. He pleaded guilty to the charge, but has the right of appeal. It was established that — at 1,200m — Semela encouraged Tapanzee around the turn against the instructions of trainer Adam Azzie. At 1,000m, he placed his mount at the rear of the field and between 800m and 400m made no attempt to make up ground on Tapanzee despite the horse showing no signs of being difficult to assist. Semela was accompanied to the National Horseracing Authority meeting by Workriders master James Maree, who has played an important role in tutoring young jockeys. Maree will be dismayed that one of his star pupils has transgressed the rules. The ban has resulted in considerable comment on social me...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.