Permission was given for Sparkling Red (IRE) and Pendlebury Lane (GB) to go early to post and for Sugar Hill Babe (IRE) to go early to post wearing a red hood.

Leaving the stalls, Persian Blue (USA), placed third, jumped right-handed hampering the winner, Balmoral Lady (IRE), which was tightened for room, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.

An enquiry was held to consider the placings in this race after two incidents of interference inside the final furlong involving Secret Mistral (GB), placed second, ridden by Jack Doughty, Smooth Silesie (IRE), placed fourth, ridden by John Fahy, and Persian Blue (USA), placed third, ridden by Harry Davies.

After viewing recordings of the incidents and hearing evidence from the three riders, it was established that in the first incident approaching ¾ of a furlong out Secret Mistral (GB) had lugged left-handed moving both Smooth Silesie (IRE) and Persian Blue (USA) off their intended racing lines.

In the second incident just inside ½ furlong marker Secret Mistral (GB) continued hanging left-handed into the path of Smooth Silesie (IRE) which had to be checked and in turn made contact with Persian Blue (USA), resulting in that filly briefly having her quarters turned.

The Stewards considered that the interference had not improved Secret Mistral (GB)’s placing as, despite Smooth Silesie (IRE) being significantly impeded in the second incident, the ground and momentum lost were considered to be less than the 1¾ lengths it was beaten for 2nd placing.

In relation to Persian Blue (IRE) which had been on the receiving end of two minor pieces of interference caused by Secret Mistral (GB), it was considered that this filly was always being comfortably held on the run to the line to be beaten by ½ a length.

Both pieces of interference were found to be accidental as Doughty had taken reasonable and proportionate steps in order to correct his mount from shifting left-handed.

Following the race, Joey Haynes reported that Sugar Hill Babe (IRE), unplaced, was slowly away and John Fahy reported that Smooth Silesie (IRE), placed fourth, was denied a clear run in the final furlong.