Alec Voikhansky Banned for 28 Days After Costly Error at Bath

 

Incident Details

Jockey Alec Voikhansky has been handed a 28-day suspension for failing to ride out to the finish line on Power Of Twins, resulting in a second-place finish at Bath on Friday evening. The apprentice jockey appeared poised to secure a win in the 5½f maiden race aboard the Richard Hannon-trained two-year-old. However, Voikhansky eased up in the final stages, allowing the 2-1 favourite, Lovestruck Romeo, trained by Ollie Sangster and ridden by Nicola Currie, to overtake him.

Stewards' Report

The official stewards' report stated: "Alec Voikhansky, the rider of Power Of Twins, placed second, beaten by one length after he failed to ride out to the winning post. After being interviewed and shown recordings of the incident, Voikhansky was suspended for 28 days for failing to take all reasonable and permissible measures on a horse which would have finished first."

Historical Context

This incident is reminiscent of a similar event in April 2023, when jockey Pat Cosgrove received the same punishment for easing up on long odds-on favourite Concorde in the final stages of a mile handicap at Chelmsford, throwing away a certain victory.

How the Incident Unfolded

Alec Voikhansky led into the final furlong aboard Power Of Twins in the 5½f maiden race.

Nicola Currie made a late challenge on Lovestruck Romeo as Voikhansky began to ease Power Of Twins down.

Power Of Twins was overtaken in the final stages, with Lovestruck Romeo claiming victory.

Consequences

Voikhansky's suspension will commence on August 17 and last until September 13. The incident serves as a stern reminder of the importance of riding out to the finish line, especially in tightly contested races.