Stewards conclude investigation into seven-horse race involving married jockeys Ben and Jamie Melham
Racing Victoria are taking no further action after concluding their investigation into betting patterns in the Group 3 Vain Stakes at Caulfield a fortnight ago.
Jockey Ben Melhman was given an eight-meeting ban for careless riding after shifting his mount Shaggy on the home stretch during the seven-horse race on August 16.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Ben Melham cops ban for careless riding as wife Jamie storms to victory.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Shaggy, a $12 shot, led for much of the 1100m race, but shifted dramatically off the rail on the bend.
The movement caused interference to three other horses, while opening a gap on the inside for Jimmy Recard, ridden by Melham’s wife Jamie, to shoot through.
Jimmy Recard then fought off Tycoon Star to win by a head in a thrilling finish.
When questioned by stewards post-race, Melham explained that he had walked the track prior to the race and he was of the view that the ground away from the rail was superior and he felt this had been supported by the way the races had been run prior to this race.
Stewards accepted the reasoning in imposing the eight-meeting suspension, but said they will investigate the betting patterns further.
“That review did not reveal any wagering information which gave rise to any integrity concerns,” stewards said on Saturday.
“The matter was concluded with no action taken.
“Stewards noted on the day, the winners of eight of the nine races at Caulfield had made their runs in the home straight away from the rail.
“Further, the overall pattern of the day showed horses away from the rail generally closed their races off better than those on the rail.
“Stewards determined the actions of Ben Melham to move away from the rail, bearing in mind the pattern of racing, was not unreasonable and, having considered all the circumstances, no action was taken.”
Melham returned to action at Sandown on August 27, riding Rock Them Jools and Tonkin to victory on a successful day.
He also had another victory at Caulfield over the weekend, winning Race 2 on board On Display.
Jamie and Ben married in January with the former changing her surname from Kah to Melham.
Originally published on 7NEWS Sport
