Murphy hit with seven-day ban

Timmy Murphy is set to miss the Racing Post Chase meeting at Kempton later this month after picking up a seven-day ban at Ludlow today.

The jockey, retained by leading owner David Johnson, was punished for his riding of Oasis Banus in the Moore Scott ‘National Hunt’ Maiden Hurdle.

Oasis Banus, trained by Martin Pipe and out of the frame in all his four previous starts, went off a 22-1 chance and was beaten 46 lengths by the winner Jack’s Lad.

The local stewards found Murphy to be in breach of rule 158 in that he failed to take all measures to ensure that his horse was given a full opportunity to obtain the best possible placing.

The stewards made their decision after interviewing Murphy and Pipe’s representative Bob Hodge.

Murphy said his instructions had been to take his time as the gelding had run very green last time, to keep in company, and to do his best.

The jockey reported that Oasis Banus had jumped poorly over the first few flights and that he had niggled down the back straight, but with no response. Hodge confirmed the instructions.

After taking in all the evidence and watching a recording of the race, the stewards suspended Murphy from February 20 to 26.

Richard Johnson also found himself in trouble with the stewards after winning the Attwood Memorial Trophy Handicap Chase on Roschal for trainer Philip Hobbs.

He was banned for three days (February 20-22) for using his whip with excessive frequency.