PAUL NICHOLLS and Harry Cobden are at the centre of a ‘surprise’ stewards enquiry into the first official race of the jumps season.
Farland was sent off 13-8 fav for a 2m novices’ hurdle at Chepstown on Persian War day at Chepstow.
The five-year-old gelding, who has a tendency to race keenly, was held up at the back of the field by top jock Cobden.
THE SUN RACING MEMBERS ENCLOSURE
The only place to get Templegate’s tips first – and at the best prices – is by joining Sun Racing’s brilliant Members Enclosure.
Sign up now for just £1* to be part of racing’s best winning team and get…
- Four free racing tickets, four times a year – worth £300
- Templegate’s daily tips at the BEST prices before anyone else
- Tomorrow’s copy of The Favourite at 9pm today
- Exclusive insights from Andrew Balding and Hayley Turner
- VIP competitions from Racing Breaks each month
- New customer offer with Coral
Become a member today for just £1*
*For the first month then £3 per month thereafter.
18+ Ts and Cs apply. First month membership £1, then £3 per month unless you cancel at least 7 days before your next billing date. For more information contact help@thesun.co.uk
Farland travelled well into the race and was five lengths down in fifth approaching the last before running on to capture third behind 9-2 winner Ben Solo.
Cobden told stewards after that Farland ‘hung badly left-handed throughout’ the contest.
However, Sun Racing columnist and Sky Sports Racing presenter Matt Chapman confirmed a ‘suprise’ stewards enquiry was being held.
The official stewards report later read: “The stewards are holding an enquiry into the running and riding of Farland, placed third, ridden by Harry Cobden and trained by Paul Nicholls.”
By 4pm, some two-and-a-half hours after the race had started, the enquiry was still yet to be completed.
More to follow.
FREE BETS – GET THE BEST SIGN UP DEALS AND RACING OFFERS
Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org.
Remember to gamble responsibly
A responsible gambler is someone who:
- Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
- Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
- Never chases their losses
- Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
- Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
- Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org
Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.