Stewards report from that Warwick race, no mention of any non triers
The Stewards held an enquiry into the use of the whip by Tom Cannon, the rider of the winner, TYRELL (IRE), from after jumping the last hurdle. Having heard his evidence and viewed recordings of the race, they found him in breach of Schedule (B)6 Part 2 in that he used his whip above the permitted level. The Stewards suspended Cannon for 2 days as follows: Thursday 22 and Wednesday 28 December 2016.
The Stewards noted that FINAL CHOICE, trained by Warren Greatrex, would wear earplugs which would be removed at the start, and that SPADER (IRE), trained by Dan Skelton would wear earplugs.
Jack Quinlan, the rider of PORT PARADISE, which was pulled up, reported that his saddle slipped.
Two enquiries in later races into apparent improvement in form
1.55
The Stewards considered the apparent improvement in form of the winner, BRANDON HILL (IRE), ridden by Noel Fehily and trained by Tom Lacey, compared with its previous run at Uttoxeter on 12 November 2016 where the gelding finished sixth of thirteen, beaten 47 lengths. They noted the trainer’s explanation that the gelding had benefited from its seasonal reappearance run which had followed a lengthy 675-day lay-off, and it had also appreciated getting an uncontested lead on this occasion. They ordered BRANDON HILL (IRE) to be routine tested.
2.30
The Stewards considered the apparent improvement in form of the winner, SEAS OF GREEN, ridden by Ciaran Gethings and trained by Paul Cowley, compared with its previous run at Chepstow on 16 November 2016 where the mare finished ninth of ten, beaten 40 lengths. They noted the trainer’s explanation that the mare had benefited from its seasonal reappearance run and had appreciated the step up in trip from 2m to 2½ miles on this occasion. They ordered SEAS OF GREEN to be routine tested.
