Ben Allen hit with 22 meeting suspension

Jockey Ben Allen’s poor record of whip breaches has cost him a hefty suspension after a winning ride at Warrnambool.

Allen was suspended for 22 meetings by Racing Victoria stewards on Thursday, the ninth time since last year’s Warrnambool carnival he has breached the whip rule.

Jockeys are allowed to use the whip five times before the 100m mark then use it freely for the remainder of the race.

Allen rode Akamon to victory in the Ludeman Real Estate Handicap, gaining a last stride win over Midas Prince.

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Stewards said Allen used the whip 11 times before the 100m mark, 20 times in total, including consecutive strides.

“It’s the ninth separate whip breach he’s had since this carnival last year and he’s won the race by the narrowest of margins,” RV deputy chief steward Rob Montgomery said.

“His last suspension was in December when he was suspended for 12 meetings so that penalty hasn’t been a deterrent.”

Allen will start his ban at midnight on May 11.

Harry Coffey, seven meetings, along with Jordan Child and apprentice Mikaela Lawrence, eight meetings, were suspended on careless riding charges.