Arctic Gold (IRE) wore earplugs throughout the race.

An enquiry was held into the running and riding of On The Road (IRE), ridden by Miss Eleanor Williams and trained by Evan Williams, which was restrained at the start before travelling forward in the middle stages to be prominent going out onto the final circuit and stayed on under a hands and heels ride in the home straight to finish second, beaten by 3¼ lengths.

The rider and the trainer were interviewed and shown recordings of the race; the Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding, during routine testing shortly after the race, failed to reveal any abnormalities.

However, a second post- race examination revealed the gelding was lame on its left hind.

The rider stated her instructions had been to drop in behind runners and let On The Road (IRE) travel where it was comfortable and to keep the gelding balanced.

Miss Williams explained that there was no pace on during the first circuit and as a result On The Road (IRE) had improved around the field from her desired position towards the rear in the early stages and was upsides the leader going out on the final circuit.

She added that the pace of the race had increased significantly halfway down the back straight and she was conscious that the leaders were committing a long way out.

She further added that despite slapping On The Road (IRE) down the shoulder on several occasions approaching the home bend, the gelding had been unable to quicken and thereafter had stayed on at the one pace in the home straight, whilst the leaders were stopping.

The trainer confirmed the instructions and that the ride accorded with them.

Mr Williams added that the rider was having her first ride in a race on this occasion and On The Road (IRE) had unseated her, got loose prior to the start and, in his opinion, had obtained the best possible placing.

Their explanations were noted.

The performance of Shetland Bus (GER), which started favourite and finished fourth, was considered.

Justin Landy could offer no explanation for the gelding’s performance other than Miss Becky Smith reporting that Shetland Bus (GER) stopped quickly.

Following the race, Miss Gina Andrews reported that Seemingly So (IRE), which was pulled up, stopped quickly and Miss Alice Stevens reported that Green Etoile (GB), which was pulled up, hung left- handed.