Tong out for 'personal issues'

Stewards have stood down apprentice Jacky Tong Chi-kit indefinitely for 'personal reasons.'

Tong, allocated to Caspar Fownes, told stewards yesterday that he's been experiencing, in the words of chief stipe Jamie Stier 'some personal issues.'

Tong said the problems had not affected his ability to perform but stewards felt his demeanour indicated they were weighing on his mind.

The stewards decided it was inappropiate for Tong to ride at the present time and he has been stood down until these issues are resolved and he has been replaced for what were to be his three rides at Sha Tin today.