Ascot Races

Tracked leader - led 2f out - kept on well final furlong - pushed out (trainer could offer no explanation for the apparent improvement in form)(op 20/1 tchd 22/1)

Held up in rear - going okay when not clear run over 1f out - soon switched right - kept on well inside final furlong - went second towards finish (an inquiry was held into running and riding; the rider and the trainer were interviewed and shown recordings of the race and the vet reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities; rider stated his instructions had been to get the gelding relaxed and take his time in order to get the gelding to finish its race; he added that he had been happy with his position in the early stages and the gelding had been relaxed after which he had intended to follow the favourite Tiger Crusade; he further added that he had become concerned entering the last couple of furlongs when Tiger Crusade was no longer travelling well - whereupon he opted to maintain his run in the hope that a gap would open but this had resulted in him being denied a clear run - a fact he had reported at scales; he added that he then had to switch right-handed for a run and was happy with how the gelding had finished its race off and he had been well-held by the winner; the trainer confirmed the instructions and stated that he was satisfied the ride accorded with those instructions)(op 80/1)

Held up in rear - headway over 2f out - soon ridden - chased winner 1f out - kept on but no extra final 110yds - lost second towards finish(op 11/8)