Sanders picks up one-day ban

Title-chasing Seb Sanders was hit with a one-day suspension for careless riding aboard Fervent Prince, who took third place in the opening HBLB Nursery at Brighton.

Sanders, who is engaged in a close-fought battle with Jamie Spencer for the jockeys’ championship, will miss a day’s action on October 8.

He is anticipating a frantic final few weeks as the race continues and is aware next month’s tally will be critical in determining the outcome.

“I have to do what I have never done before and that’s probably ride 20 winners – and maybe more – in October if I’m to be in with a shot,” he told At The Races.

“If there are opportunities to ride winners at a course then I expect Jamie and me will be there. I hope it’ll go down to the wire as it’s kept us all interested.”

Sanders has ridden horses for a large number of trainers this year and believes having so many options has provided the catalyst for his excellent season.

“I have made some more contacts this year and that’s definitely given me more of a chance,” he added.

“It’s great to be in with a chance.”

Sanders ended the day level with his big rival after drawing a blank from a full book of rides at Brighton.

Spencer, who is walking a tightrope with a ban under the totting-up procedure threatening, landed a Folkestone double with Dubai Princess and Samsons Son.