The National Horseracing Authority confirms that at an Inquiry held in Cape Town on 13 December 2022, Jockey Grant van Niekerk was charged with a contravention of Rule 62.2.7. The particulars being that as the rider of ACADEMIC GOLD he failed to ensure that he did not cause interference to VIRGINIA SWEET at the 300m in Race 3 at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse on 3 December 2022.

Jockey van Niekerk pleaded guilty to and was found guilty of the charge. 

The Inquiry Board, after considering the video evidence, his riding record and all mitigating factors, imposed a penalty of a suspension from riding in races for a period of seven (7) days.

Jockey van Niekerk was given the Right of Appeal against the penalty imposed.

Jockey van Niekerk waived his Right of Appeal against the penalty imposed and was granted permission to take his suspension from 18/12/2022 to 24/12/2022, both dates inclusive.