Horseracing: Richard Hughes’ title bid hit as 50-day ban enforced

RICHARD Hughes’ championship hopes were dealt a severe blow when he failed in his application to the British Horseracing Authority not to reciprocate a 50-day riding ban handed to the Irishman in India.

The BHA dismissed the jockey’s plea in relation to the suspension given to him by the Mumbai stewards in mid-February. He was suspended for reportedly not riding to instructions, an offence that is not punishable under British rules.

Hughes turned to the BHA after failing to get the ban overturned in India. It is already in force and covers the remaining 15 meetings of the Mumbai season that ends on 29 April. The new Flat season in Britain starts at Doncaster on Saturday.

Hughes has never been champion jockey, but went very close in 2010 when he pushed Paul Hanagan all the way as the race went to the last day of the turf season, at Doncaster. However, he felt the ban would not have a major impact on his chances, adding: “You wouldn’t ride ten winners in that time anyway.”

BHA media spokesman Robin Mounsey said: “The BHA is one of about 50 authorities who are signatories to the International Racing Agreement and, as such, the BHA is committed to reciprocating penalties imposed on licensees by recognised Racing authorities, providing always that the disciplinary process is procedurally fair.”

• Perth Racecourse has announced a near 30 per cent increase in prize money for the forthcoming jumps season, which begins at the track on 27 April with the three-day Crabbie’s Alcoholic Ginger Beer Perth Festival.

In 2012, total prize money at the course will exceed £620,000 – an increase of £160,000 from last year – ensuring that a minimum prize fund of £5,000 will be achieved for all races, other than two Hunter Chases and National Hunt Flat Races, although these will also enjoy considerable increases.

There will be £162,000 in prize-money up for grabs at the opening Festival alone.