An enquiry was held into the running and riding of Bird For Life (GB), ridden by Ryan Tate and trained by Mark Usher, which raced detached from the main field for the first circuit before latching onto the back of the field from 5 furlongs out and running on well in the final furlong to finish sixth, beaten by 3¾ lengths.

The rider and the representative of the trainer were interviewed and shown recordings of the race and the Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the mare failed to reveal any abnormalities.

The rider stated that he had ridden Bird For Life (GB) on multiple occasions so was familiar with the mare and as such did not have any instructions, but added that Bird For Life (GB) can be tricky and often races from the rear of the field and therefore to ride her as best he could.

He added that after becoming detached shortly after the start he had asked Bird For Life (GB) to reduce the gap on the other runners from a mile out.

He further added that his urgings had resulted in the mare closing on the field approaching the 3 furlong marker and Bird For Life (GB) had only really made headway in the final furlong.

The trainer’s representative stated that Bird For Life (GB) is notoriously quirky and that the mare suffering slight interference at the start had made life difficult early on but was satisfied with the ride given, adding that he had spoken to the trainer who was happy with the ride given by Tate in the circumstances.

Their explanations were noted.

Callum Shepherd, the rider of the winner, Marlborough Sounds (GB), was suspended for 2 days for using his whip above the permitted level from 1½ furlongs out.