Michael Dee's chances to win the Melbourne apprentices' premiership hinge on an appeal against a careless riding suspension.
Dee is two wins behind Dylan Dunn in the battle for the junior title but will have to win an appeal against a 10-meeting ban to compete at the final two meetings of the season.
He was suspended at Flemington Saturday for his winning ride on Royal Rapture.
Dee's appeal against the decision and severity of the penalty is set to be heard by the Racing Appeals and Disciplinary Board on Wednesday morning.
He has been booked for six rides at Sandown on Wednesday pending the appeal.
If he loses he will miss Sandown and the final meeting of the season at Caulfield on Saturday.