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

Abnaa (GB) arrived at the start with blood in its mouth.

Having been examined by the Veterinary Surgeon and being satisfied that the gelding had bitten its tongue, Abnaa (GB) was deemed fit to race.

Shortly after entering the back straight, Youllovemewheniwin (IRE), placed third, drifted quickly right- handed causing the rider of the free running Abnaa (GB), placed second, to take a check, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.

An enquiry was held into the running and riding of Perfect Focus (IRE) ridden by Ray Dawson, and trained by Henry Spiller, which was steadied at the start, and apparently tenderly handled under a hands and heels ride in the last 2 furlongs to finish sixth of nine runners beaten 4 ½ lengths.

The rider and the trainer’s representative were interviewed and shown recordings of the race; the Veterinary Officer reported that upon the second post-race examination of Perfect Focus (IRE) failed to reveal any abnormalities other than the gelding was moving poorly in front.

The rider stated that his instructions were to settle the gelding in behind in order to finish off his race.

He added that he had been caught wider than was ideal on the first turn, and was unable to get sufficient cover.

He added that as a result Perfect Focus (IRE) had run too keen, which he had reported at scales on his return to weigh in.

He further added he had made an effort from two furlongs out and in his opinion had obtained the best possible placing.

The trainer’s representative confirmed these instructions and stated that he was satisfied that the ride given was in accordance with these instructions.

The trainer’s representative further added that the gelding was a difficult ride at home and had shown a tendency to be very keen in his work, hence the instructions to try and get Perfect Focus(IRE) to settle in order to finish his race off more satisfactorily.

The Stewards noted their explanations and Perfect Focus (IRE) was routine tested.

Following the race, Cam Hardie reported that Abnaa (GB), placed second, ran too free.

Theodore Ladd reported that Wrath Of Hector (GB), unplaced, was slowly away and ran too free when the pace of the race was steadied.