Michael Walker, New Zealand's record-breaking jockey of the year and apprentice of the year, was hit with a seven-week suspension on Monday after an inquiry into his ride on Cherak at Werribee on October 31.

The 17-year-old rider was charged with having failed to take all reasonable and permissible measures to ensure that Cherak was given full opportunity to gain the best possible place in the field. The steward's opinion was that he failed to ride his mount out with sufficient vigor in the final 1 ½ furlongs to the winning post.

Walker pleaded guilty to the charge and stewards found him guilty and suspended him from riding in races from midnight, December 13, until midnight on January 31.

In assessing the penalty, stewards took into account Walker's youth, his character, and the fact that he pleaded guilty to the charge. Walker will not appeal against either the severity of the charge or penalty.—Delamere Usher