Jockey David Flores, who relocated to Singapore in late 2013 after riding at Santa Anita and at the Fair Grounds for a spell, has received a one-year suspension by stewards at the Singapore Turf Club for his ride aboard Kiss Me (Aus) (Casino Prince {Aus}) in the opening race Feb. 22, 2015.
Flores was partnered for the first time with the Alwin Tan-trained gelding, who entered the 1200-meter event with a single victory and eight minor placings from 24 career appearances. Drawn post position three (saddle towel seven) and sent off at odds of 4-1 while dropping slightly in class, the 4-year-old was better than midfield while saving ground and closed off to finish fourth, beaten three lengths (video). In their post-race report, stewards advised that they would be conferring with Flores 'regarding the run of Kiss Me.'
The inquiry took place this past Wednesday, Mar. 25, and after taking evidence from both jockey and trainer, Flores was found guilty under Malaysian Racing Authority Rule 44(8) for 'failing to take all reasonable and permissible measures to obtain the best possible placing.' Specifically, stewards ruled that Flores failed to improve his position when 'reasonable and permissible to do so' from the 600-meter mark to the 400-meter mark and further 'failed to ride with sufficient vigor and determination over the final 400 meters.” In assessing the penalty, stewards took into account that nature of the charge and Flores's record. The disqualification is set to expire Mar. 24, 2016, and Flores was advised of his right of appeal.
According to Equibase statistics, Flores is the winner of 3,538 races in the U.S., including Breeders' Cup successes aboard Singletary (2004 Mile), Action This Day (2003 Juvenile) and Tempera (2001 Juvenile Fillies). Since 2013, he had ridden 47 winners in Singapore, but just three in the current season. Flores returned to the U.S. over the Christmas holiday in late 2014 and rode five horses at Santa Anita.
Not a subscriber? Click here to sign up for the daily PDF or alerts.
