Apologise (IRE) wore earplugs throughout the race.

An enquiry was held to consider whether Conor O’Farrell, the rider of Elmaftun (IRE), had continued in the race when it was contrary to the horse’s welfare, after becoming detached from half-way down the back straight before falling at the second-last hurdle.

The rider and the Veterinary Officer were interviewed, and recordings of the incident were viewed.

The Veterinary Officer reported the gelding remained prone for a considerable period of time but had got back to its feet following veterinary treatment.

Following a post- race examination once back in the stable yard, Elmaftun (IRE) was showing a recovery rate within normal parameters.

The rider explained that he felt the gelding had been idling throughout and although he was well detached, when the loose horse joined him in the home straight, Elmaftun (IRE) appeared to pick up and in his opinion felt capable of being able to jump the final two hurdles.

However, upon reviewing the footage O’Farrell conceded that this was an error of judgement on his part and accepted that he should have pulled the gelding up before the second-last hurdle.

O’Farrell was suspended for 8 days as he had failed to pull up Elmaftun (IRE) when it had no more to give and was tailed off through fatigue.

Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that Beautiful Surprise (GB), which unseated its rider at the second hurdle, and Lightening Gesture (GB), placed fourth, both bled from the nose.