An enquiry was held into the running and riding of Dashing Spirit (IRE), ridden by Callum Shepherd, which broke well and dropped in behind runners from the wide draw, raced keen at the rear of the field before being asked for an effort passing the two-furlong marker to finish sixth of twelve, beaten by 8 ¾ lengths.

The rider was interviewed and shown recordings of the race and the Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities.

The rider stated his instructions were to drop in and get Dashing Spirit (IRE) relaxed as it was the gelding’s first run over 1 mile and being drawn 14, wanted to obtain the best possible position on the rail.

He explained that he tried to settle Dashing Spirit (IRE) and get behind horses as the gelding, in his opinion, was over-racing at the back of the field.

He further explained that with the pace slowing on the bend, the leaders had been able to kick-away at the top of the home straight, leaving his mount flat footed.

He added that approaching the cut-away he was unable to ask for an effort due to being trapped behind a pocket of runners, but when a gap did present itself, the gelding failed to quicken as expected.

He further added that shortly after, Dashing Spirit (IRE) was slightly intimidated by Kalfu (GB), before staying on in the closing stages.

His explanations were noted.

Following the race, Jim Crowley, the rider of Mumtaaz (IRE), which started second-favourite and finished unplaced, and Josephine Gordon, the rider of Casavola (GB), unplaced, both reported that their mounts were slowly away.

Martin Harley reported that NOW WE’RE TOURING (IRE), unplaced, hung left-handed.