The Stewards interviewed Mr Gavin Cromwell, trainer and Shane McCann rider, in relation to the running and riding of Crossdresser in this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned who stated that his instructions were to settle his mount towards the rear as he has a history of running free and has a tendency to hang. In running, he stated that his mount settled well but on occasion when seeing daylight began to hang and run free. He also stated that he took the option of going between the horses on the run-in so as to prevent his horse from hanging left whilst at the same time trying to nurse his mount home. He further added that this was as strong as he could ride under a hands and heels ride and felt that he had obtained his best possible placing.
Evidence was also heard from Mr Gavin Cromwell who confirmed the instructions and expressed satisfaction both with the way the horse ran and the manner in which he was ridden.
Having viewed the video of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were of the opinion that Crossdresser had not been allowed to run on it's merits and they therefore fined Mr Cromwell ?2000 and suspended Crossdresser from racing for 60 days. Furthermore Shane McCann was suspended from race riding for 21 days and ordered to forfeit his riding fee.
