An enquiry was held into the running and riding of Theatre Tom (IRE), ridden by Lewis Stones and trained by Olly Murphy, which was ridden towards the rear throughout before staying on well from an unpromising position leaving the back straight, under considerate handling to finish fifth of fourteen runners, beaten 8 lengths.

The rider was interviewed and shown recordings of the race, and the Veterinary Officer reported that the gelding was found to be coughing post-race.

The rider indicated that his instructions were to get cover on Theatre Tom (IRE) and ride him to run well, as having spoken to Kevin Brogan who had ridden the gelding on its two previous runs, the feedback had been the gelding has displayed a tendency to race keenly in the past and this would hopefully assist in enabling him to switch off and relax.

Stones explained that Theatre Tom (IRE) settled well off a sound early pace and he was pleased with the way the gelding travelled and jumped throughout before commencing his forward move when creeping into the contest approaching the final bend.

He added that whilst Theatre Tom (IRE) had consistently responded to his urgings down the home straight, the gelding had initially been outpaced when the tempo increased and thereafter he was running through beaten horses, rather than making ground on the four principals he finished behind.

Stones further added that in his opinion he considered Theatre Tom (IRE) had achieved its best possible placing and he would be reporting back to his Trainer that the gelding may benefit from a step up in trip, although he felt in testing conditions today’s trip would remain manageable.

His explanation was noted.

Following the race, Michael Nolan reported that Saint Anapolino (FR), placed third, jumped right- handed.

Race 2 - 12:20pm.

THE RICHARD WINTERTON AUCTIONEERS MARES' NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (GBB RACE) Following the race, Oliver Greenall reported that DAZZLELIKETHIS (IRE), unplaced, made a respiratory noise.