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He'll be better when he gets better ground, and I think he may win again on the Flat,. Gordon Elliott, trainer

The Stewards interviewed B.J. Cooper, rider of Alamein, concerning his use of the whip in this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards were of the opinion that the rider was in breach of Regulation 10.3(e), in that he hit the horse in an area other than down the shoulder or hind quarters and having considered his record, suspended him for one race day. The Stewards enquired into the running and riding of Mental Strength, ridden by Mr P.C. Bannon, and trained by Mrs Gillian Callaghan. Evidence was heard from the rider and trainer concerned. Mr P.C. Bannon, stated that his instructions were to settle his mount towards the rear, to get him jumping and finish the race out well. He added that the horse did not act on the heavy ground and got unbalanced at stages. He concluded by saying that in hindsight he may have left his horse with too much ground to make up. Mrs Gillian Callaghan, confirmed the instructions and added that the horse can be highly strung and that it was important to teach him to settle. She added that the horse may benefit from a step up in trip on better ground. She agreed with the rider in that he should have put the horse into the race sooner. The Stewards also received a report from the Turf Club Veterinary Officer who stated that Mental Strenght was post race normal. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards noted the explanations offered but advised the rider to be seen to be making more of an effort in future. Mr. Robert Dore, Acting Steward, absented himself from this enquiry. The Stewards interviewed D.N. Russell, rider of Stuccodor, concerning his use of the whip in this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards were of the opinion that the rider was in breach of Regulation 10.3(e), in that he hit the horse in an area other than down the shoulder or on the hind quarters and having considered his record, suspended him for one race day.

A hurdle race for five yrs old and upwards, maidens at starting
Weights - 5-y-o 11st 11lb; 6-y-o and up 11st 12lb; Mares allowed 7lb;