St Nicholas Abbey© Photo Healy Racing
The Stewards enquired into the running and riding of St Nicholas Abbey placed second, ridden by JP O’Brien, and trained by Mr AP O’Brien. Evidence was heard from the rider and trainer concerned.
JP O’Brien stated that his instructions were to get his mount to switch off, get settled and make the best of his way home. He said his mount hated the ground and he was never happy with how he travelled. He tried to get him to creep into the race and he held onto him as long as possible to make sure he got home on the ground. He felt that if he had come off the bridle earlier in the straight he would not have finished out his race as well as he did. He stated he felt he obtained his best possible placing taking into account todays conditions.
Mr AP O’Brien confirmed the instructions and outlined how his charge had been to Dubai earlier in the year followed by a little break afterwards, he trained him since with a view to running today on route to the Coronation Cup. He explained how his charge had been beaten in this corresponding race last year on soft ground, and has shown a preference for better ground in the past. He expressed satisfaction with the ride considering the ground conditions, saying if his rider went after the pacemakers earlier in the race, he’d have been out on his head and wouldn’t have lasted home.
The Stewards also received a report from the Turf Club Veterinary Officer who stated that St Nicholas Abbey was Post Race Normal. Having viewed the video of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards noted the explanations offered.
