With just nine racedays to go in the year, the race is truly on between reigning champion Dane Nelson and Dick Cardenas for championship honours with Nelson the odds on favourite to win and become the champion jockey three years in succession. But his quest for a third championship may not rest solely on his shoulders or the exploits of his main rival.

Nelson after finishing second on Saturday on the Richard Azan trained Cheers was subsequently disqualified and placed fifth for causing interference to Stop A Gap close to the one furlong pole.

On Wednesday October 29, Nelson while riding Princess Shemika was charged with careless riding in the day’s third event won by Play Station.

The champion jockey subsequently met with the stewards at a disciplinary hearing last week and was suspended for three racedays which was expected to begin on Saturday November 22. Nelson then appealed the suspension and was given a stay of execution, the Complete Racing Guide was informed.

Following Saturday’s disqualification Nelson will more than likely have to face another disciplinary hearing with the stewards.

Nelson by tallying nine winners over the last three racedays including a double on last Saturday’s 10-race card has increased his lead over main rival Dick Cardenas in the jockeys’ championship.

The man race fans has dubbed the ‘Warrior Chief’ for his bustling riding style is now six winners (96 to 90) in front of Cardenas, who at one point led the race by five winners, before Nelson took over the lead on Superstakes Day.

In the list of the top 10 riders, apart from Nelson and Cardenas, apprentice O’Brien White having a breakthrough season is on 42 wins, ahead of Shane Ellis, who has ridden a total of 38 winners. Ellis, though, continues to solidify his status as the big race jockey, having won the Superstakes aboard Typewriter to go along with his three of the five Classic races this year. Omar Walker, who rode a brilliant three-timer on Superstakes occupies five spot on 34 winners.

Paul Francis is next on 27 followed by Orlando Foster, Shamaree Muir and Robert Halledeen with 25 winners each. Percival Williams completes the top 10 list of riders with 23 winners.

PHOTO: NELSON DANE NOVEMBER 15

CAPTION – Dane Nelson after his win on Danos La Paz, last Saturday at the Park. (PHOTO: JOSEPH WELLINGTON)