Piere 'Striker' Strydom, in an exclusive interview with SAHorseracing.COM, candidly addressed his recent suspension and provided insights into his upcoming ride in the prestigious Cape Town Met.

Strydom didn't mince words when expressing his frustration about the suspension, feeling hard done by the stewards' decision. He elaborated on the incident, explaining, "I felt I was harshly done by as you can clearly see my horse runs away from the right whip, and then I move to the left (whip). Then my horse moves away from the left whip and runs behind the horse in front of me. It's obvious I can't be that vigorous anymore as I'll end up clipping heels which could lead to a fall."

Facing a pivotal decision, he outlined, "I have been given 5 working days to appeal, or I can let it go until the review board sits on 12th of February if I am correct about the date."

However, Strydom assured that the suspension wouldn't hinder his participation in the Cape Town Met. With unwavering determination, he stated, "No effect on Met ride. I carry on riding until the review board meets and decides if it warrants a suspension or not," reaffirming his commitment to the ride. 

Turning the conversation to his upcoming Met ride on See It Again, Strydom shared his optimism, "If everything works out well, it's a one horse race. I need to get luck in running from the wide draw, and if I get a good position, I'll be happy. Then he should be very hard to beat."

Discussing tactics, he acknowledged, "Muis (Trainer Michael Roberts) always likes me to sit at the back with him, but it's difficult to plan the race out. From the draw, I will play it by ear and make the right decisions."

The interview served as a platform for Strydom to clear the air about the suspension, revealing his dissatisfaction but also an air if optimism for the future in what is likely his last Met ride.