Francis

Title-chasing jockey Dane Nelson was on Tuesday slapped with a three-day suspension by the stewards for careless riding aboard TOBAGO in the fifth race over 1100 metres at Caymanas Park on Boxing Day.

TOBAGO passed the post fourth, but was subsequently disqualified for having caused interference to FIRST LADY and THANKSWITHASMILE leaving the half-mile. Nelson's suspension will take effect on Saturday, January 30.

He will be out of action at the same time as another top jockey, Paul 'Country' Francis, who starts a four-day suspension on Wednesday, January 27.

Francis was penalised for careless riding aboard NATURALLY ROYAL in the eighth race on New Year's Day, causing interference to THE BEST MAN in the vicinity of the 500-metre point.

NATURALLY ROYAL finished a close second to WILD GLITZ in a blanket finish, but was subsequently disqualified and placed fourth following a stewards' inquiry.

Also out on suspension are top 10 jockey Richard Mitchell (three-days) and top apprentice Doushane Gordon, four days.

- O.C.