An enquiry was held into the running and riding of Shark (FR), ridden by Harriett Lees and trained by Kevin Ryan, which was tenderly handled throughout and finished last of nine finishers, beaten 23 lengths.

The rider, who was accompanied in the enquiry by a senior jockey, and the trainer’s representative were interviewed and shown recordings of the race; the Handicapper offered observations and the Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities.

Lees stated that her instructions were to jump out, get a good position and allow Shark (FR) to travel and ride the race as she found it.

She added that the gelding was slowly into stride before becoming outpaced early and failing to respond when asked for its effort once entering the home straight.

She further added that approximately 1 furlong out, in order to avoid the heels of Lord Warburton (IRE) which had shifted slightly left into her path, she had had to take a slight check, but the gelding failed to pick up thereafter and ran on at the one pace to the line.

The trainer’s representative stated that she had spoken to the trainer and agreed those had been the instructions and that he was satisfied with the ride under the circumstances.

Their explanations were noted.

Following the race, Harry Russell reported that Majalaat (IRE), unplaced, was slowly away.

Dougie Costello reported that FELEENA’S SPELL, which was pulled up, stopped quickly and the Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the filly failed to reveal any abnormalities.