Haydock Result

An enquiry was held into the running and riding of Mersin (GB), ridden by Jason Watson and trained by Roger Charlton, which was restrained leaving the stalls and settled towards the rear throughout before staying on under apparent considerate handling in the home straight to finish third, beaten 13½ lengths.

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

The rider stated his instructions were to get a lead on Mersin (GB), which is blind in its right eye and ensure he got the colt to relax.

He added that Mersin (GB) ran very freely through the early stages and the effort taken in getting the colt to settle underneath him had resulted in Mersin (GB) getting further back than intended.

He further added that Mersin (GB) was hanging right- handed in the home straight, a fact which he had reported at Scales and this had restricted him from being able to improve his position earlier and ride with his normal degree of vigour.

Watson also explained that when he was eventually able to ride Mersin (GB) out fully hands and heels inside the final 2 furlongs, the colt had found the line pleasingly and in his opinion obtained the best possible placing,11 lengths behind the second placed horse.

His explanation was noted.