Buonarotti Boy (IRE), trained by Sophie Leech, had arrived in the Parade Ring without its declared cheekpieces which were then located and fitted on the gelding before going to the start.

After interviewing the trainer’s representative, Leech was cautioned.

An enquiry was held into the running and riding of Little Stevie (GB), ridden by Sam Coltherd and trained by Stella Barclay, which jumped off in mid-division and settled there throughout before receiving a hands and heels ride from approaching the home turn to finish twelfth, beaten by 27½ lengths.

The rider was interviewed and shown recordings of the race and the Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities.

The rider stated that his instructions had been to obtain a handy position on Little Stevie (GB) and get the gelding covered up, before seeking inside runs where possible when improving his position.

Coltherd explained that despite being able to settle the gelding in his desired position early on, he felt that Little Stevie (GB) was always behind the bridle and never travelling comfortably due to the strong pace.

The rider added that leaving the back straight he was reluctant to place Little Stevie (GB) under maximum pressure and go out after the leaders because the gelding is a renowned bridle-horse who responds best to being coaxed into the race, which keeps him interested.

However, Little Stevie (GB) did not respond to his urgings in the home straight and weakened out of the race, having ran flat on this occasion, a fact he had reported at Scales.

Coltherd further added that he had recommended to connections the gelding was in need of a freshen up, after having had a busy recent steeplechasing campaign prior to this run over hurdles.

His explanation was noted.

An enquiry was held at Market Rasen on Saturday 26 September 2020, adjourned from Uttoxeter on Friday 25 September 2020, into the use of the whip by Jack Tudor, the rider of Rob Royal (FR), placed second.

After being interviewed and shown recordings of the race, Tudor was suspended for 2 days for using his whip with his arm above shoulder height from shortly after jumping the second last hurdle.

Following the race, Jack Tudor reported that Rob Royal (FR), which started favourite and finished second, hung badly left-handed in the home straight.