Michael Kinane is set to miss the ride on Johannesburg in next month's Kentucky Derby after being hit with a seven-day suspension in the final race at Newmarket's Craven meeting today. Kinane was found guilty of irresponsible riding of a major nature when his mount, Sahara Desert, was found to have interfered with Tumbleweed Charm inside the final furlong, who in turn hampered Western Verse.
Kinane was due to partner last season's champion juvenile for his boss Aidan O'Brien in the big race on May 4. American Jerry Bailey, who was due to ride Johannesburg's stablemate Castle Gandolfo in the race, could now be the favourite to come in for the mount.
Kinane, who has until Monday evening to formally launch an appeal, declined to make a comment as he left the course. Another possible option open to him would be to seek a court injunction against the stewards' decision, forcing the suspension dates to be put back.
Filed by Johnny Proby
