Permission was given for Ivasecret (IRE) to wear a red hood to the start.

An enquiry was held into the running and riding of Smiling Sunflower (IRE), ridden by Mia Nicholls and trained by Michael Appleby which was very slowly away and raced detached from the field in the back straight, receiving a hands and heels effort from 2f out, to stay on at one pace to the line.

The rider was interviewed and shown recordings of the race; the Handicapper offered observations.

The rider stated her instructions were to ride the mare in a similar style to her previous run 7 days ago, where Smiling Sunflower (IRE) was also slowly away and ride her according to how she jumped today.

Nicholls stated that Smiling Sunflower (IRE) was slowly away and wanted to let the mare get into a rhythm, adding that she was detached from the field early, but in her opinion they went a fast pace in the early stages of the race.

Leaving the back straight she further stated that she asked the mare for her first effort where she saw Emorcee (IRE) coming back to her.

She added that rounding the bend and turning into the home straight she started to ask Smiling Sunflower (IRE) for an effort approximately 2f out where she soon realised the mare was showing minimal response to her urgings and therefore continued with a hands and heels ride to the line.

Her explanations were noted.

The winner Ivasecret (IRE), appeared to show improved form compared with its previous run at Lingfield on 8 February 2024 where the gelding finished eighth of eight beaten 8 ½ lengths.

Ian Williams explained that the gelding may have benefitted from a step up in trip from 5f to a mile on this occasion.

His explanation was noted and Ivasecret (IRE) was routine tested.

Following the race, Mia Nicholls reported that Smiling Sunflower (IRE), unplaced, was slowly away and Luke Catton reported that Dynamic Talent (GB), placed third, was slowly away and hung right-handed.