An enquiry was held into the running and riding of Hathlool (IRE), ridden by Theodore Ladd and trained by Michael Appleby, which was slowly away, and appeared to be tenderly ridden with the rider appearing to not take available opportunities to improve his position in the middle stages of the race, finishing fifth of nine, beaten by 7 ½ lengths.

Ladd and the representative of Appleby were interviewed and shown recordings of the race.

The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of Hathlool (IRE) failed to reveal any abnormalities.

Ladd stated that his instructions were to obtain cover early on and to present the gelding as late as possible as Hathlool (IRE) tended to run keenly when racing without cover and wander around when presented and hitting the lead too early.

This was confirmed by Mr Appleby’s representative.

Ladd explained that the gelding was slowly away, but he was reluctant to chase the gelding to make up the ground lost to avoid Hathlool (IRE) racing too keenly, adding that this was more relevant, in his opinion, due to the slow early pace of the race.

As such he was happy to ride behind the other runners and not to chase them and did not want to take two earlier opportunities to seek a gap as this would mean him losing cover too early and he wanted to run on between horses.

He further explained that he had hoped to overtake tiring horses in the testing Ascot finish, but he was denied a clear run at a crucial stage of the race, a fact which he reported to scales.

Appleby’s representative stated that they were satisfied with the ride and that it accorded with the instructions given.

Their explanations were noted.

Following the race, William Cox reported that his saddle on Lyndon B (IRE), unplaced, slipped.