An enquiry was held to consider the placings in this race after interference on the run in when the winner, GAMERET (FR), ridden by Charlie Deutsch, interfered with Pearly Island (GB), placed second, ridden by Bryony Frost.

The Stewards considered that the interference had not improved GAMERET (FR)’s placing as the gelding always appeared to be holding Pearly Island (GB) and Pearly Island (GB) appeared to lose little to no momentum as a result on the interference with ½ length between them at the line.

Deutsch was cautioned for careless riding as he allowed his mount to drift left-handed without timely correction intimidating Pearly Island (GB).

An enquiry was held into the running and riding of Forward Plan (IRE), ridden by Rex Dingle and trained by Anthony Honeyball, which was held up in the rear before making steady headway in the home straight under apparent tender handling, finishing sixth of thirteen, beaten by 14 ¾ lengths.

Dingle was interviewed and shown recordings of the race.

The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities.

Dingle stated that his instructions were to get Forward Plan (IRE) to settle, take his time and ride the race as he found it as the gelding had failed to finish off its race having made the running at Wincanton on 8 January 2022.

He explained that Forward Plan (IRE) was a little free early on but soon settled into a rhythm at the rear of the field.

He added that he began to make a bit of ground as they passed the winning post with a circuit to go but from this midpoint in the race Forward Plan (IRE) had begun to hang right-handed, a fact which he had reported to Scales.

Dingle further stated that at the end of the back straight on the final circuit, he switched his mount back in so as not to be stuck wide on the bend with his mount continuing to hang.

He added that he was unable to ride out Forward Plan (IRE) as vigorously as he would have liked due to the gelding hanging and that in the circumstances the gelding had obtained the best possible placing.

He continued that in his opinion the gelding had finished the race off better on this occasion having been more relaxed and may in time benefit from better ground and a step up in trip.

His explanation was noted.