An enquiry was held into the running and riding of Stage Show (GB), ridden by Gavin Sheehan and trained by Alexandra Dunn, which was held up in rear before appearing to be tenderly handled in the latter stages of the race to finish sixth of eight runners, beaten by 45½ lengths.

Sheehan was interviewed and shown recordings of the race.

The Veterinary Officer examined Stage Show (GB), post-race and had nothing to report.

The rider stated he had no specific instructions from the trainer other than to ride the horse as he found him and that he had jumped off in behind the leaders, as Stage Show (GB) had shown a tendency to have a look at an obstacle in the past when in front and he therefore preferred to be in behind going into the first hurdle.

Mr Sheehan further reported that Stage Show (GB) raced behind the bridle for most of the race and that he had tried to hold the gelding together as much as he could while consistently nudging him along throughout the race.

He felt that the gelding was unsuited by the going as it was riding very dead and that having asked for an effort turning out of the back straight on the final circuit, he then held him together when turning into the home straight down the hill in order to get him safely over the final obstacles and to get the gelding to finish as best he could when he had no further to give on tiring ground.

His explanation was noted.