Bookies get bloody nose while Stand Guard romps home,

What was likely to be the story from yesterday’s racing was the eagerly awaited race where 24 times All Weather winner La Estrella was pitted against 23 times All Weather winner Stand Guard. When you consider that the lack of quality is given so much emphasis in the world of horse racing, it seemed rather curious that the focus of attention was on the All Weather at Southwell in a Class 6 Seller. I was very mistaken in thinking I was alone in relishing the prospect since the declarations were made.

Not that I have a favourite but I had pinned my colours firmly to the mast of Stand Guard due to the race conditions and had availed myself of enough 11-10 to feel reasonably satisfied. Then came the Don Cantillon bombshell first through Simon Mapletoft of ATR and then live on camera. La Estrella had rolled over banging its head causing bleeding from the nose. By order of the BHA vet La Estrella was withdrawn from the race!

In all the anticipation it hadn’t escape my mind that one of the two would cry-off and after the bullish pre-race interviews from both trainers I was not overly surprised with events. It would appear that the BHA are equally sceptical. Here is the report from the BHA website:

The Stewards held an Enquiry into the circumstances leading to the late withdrawal of LA ESTRELLA (USA) by the gelding’s trainer, Don Cantillon, under a Veterinary Certificate issued by the BHA Veterinary Officer. They interviewed the Veterinary Officer, the Senior Veterinary Surgeon and an Equine Welfare and Integrity Officer. Having heard their evidence, the Stewards ordered a report to be forwarded to the British Horseracing Authority.

I am sure there was many a punter hoping that Stand Guard may be turned over by the one remaining runner of the original five, Bix but 7lb claimer Jordan Hibberd did little to help that cause ridding tight up against the rail and it took little effort for Stand Guard to canter by. If there was an upside, it was being paid out at around 1-2 after a Rule 4 on a horse returning at 1-66.

Have a great day with Kempton this evening and watch out for non-runners 

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