Hughes title hopes dealt a blow

Richard Hughes' championship hopes were dealt a severe blow after he failed in his application to the British Horseracing Authority not to reciprocate a hefty riding ban handed to the Irishman in India.

The BHA dismissed the jockey's plea in relation to the 50-day suspension given to him by the Mumbai stewards in mid-February.

He was suspended for reportedly not riding to instructions, an offence that is not punishable under British rules.

Hughes turned to the BHA after failing to get the ban overturned in India.

The ban has already been in force and covers the remaining 15 meetings of the Mumbai season that ends on April 29. The new Flat turf season in Britain starts at Doncaster on Saturday.

Hughes said: "I've been denied. I'm a bit disappointed, but I don't have any reasons for the decision yet."

Asked if might take it any further, he replied: "I'd have to see the reasons first."

In January, Hughes was given a lengthy suspension in India for 'foul riding', but was partially successful in an appeal as the ban was changed to a fine.

He said: "I won't be going back (to India).

"I'm not sure what I'll do now. What can you do apart from riding out and getting them ready for everyone else?"

Hughes has never been champion jockey, but went very close in 2010 when he pushed Paul Hanagan all the way as the title race went to the last day of the turf season, at Doncaster.

However, he felt the ban would not have a major impact on his title chances, adding: "You wouldn't ride 10 winners in that time anyway."

BHA media spokesman Robin Mounsey said: "Until we have seen the reasons provided by the disciplinary panel following their decision to uphold the suspension imposed by the Royal Western India Turf Club on Richard Hughes, it not is possible for the BHA to comment any further.

"The BHA is one of about 50 authorities who are signatories to the International Racing Agreement, and as such the BHA is committed to reciprocating penalties imposed on licensees by recognised Racing authorities, providing always that the disciplinary process is procedurally fair."