An enquiry was held into the running and riding of Millies Mite (IRE), ridden by Niall Houlihan and trained by John Best & Karen Jewell, with particular reference to the riders urgency to reduce the distance by which he had become detached in the early stages, before staying on at one pace in the home straight to pass the weakening Devious Dicks Dame (GB) to finish third of the four finishers, beaten 30 lengths.

The rider was 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 his instructions were to ride the mare as he found her and to get her travelling and jumping early.

He explained that the mare was having her first run over fences was very novicey at the first fence and jumped slowly thereafter, and he felt he was always on the back foot due to the strong pace being set by the early leaders and his main priority was to keep his horse in rhythm and in his view it would be detrimental to chase the strong pace.

He added that he had asked for an effort from rounding the final bend and Millies Mite (IRE) stayed on at one pace to obtain in his opinion the best possible pacing.

His explanation was noted.

Following the race, Jack Tudor reported that he pulled up Duneomeno (FR), after the gelding made a bad mistake at the second fence.