Legendary jockey Ruby Walsh has criticized the decision to allow two favored runners in the King George Chase to go to the start early while the others paraded.
Dramatic Finish
The Grade 1 prize was clinched in a thrilling fashion by Hewick, who overtook Allaho and Bravemansgame in the final strides. The race took a dramatic turn when Shishkin stumbled and unseated jockey Nico de Boinville shortly after the second-last jump.
Walsh's Disapproval
Despite the exciting on-track action, Walsh expressed his disappointment with what happened before the race. Typically, runners are paraded in front of the grandstands before heading to the start, allowing spectators to get a final look at the horses. However, special circumstances can allow certain horses to go to the start early, usually for those easily affected by crowd noise.
Unfair Advantage?
Both Bravemansgame and Shishkin were granted permission to go to the start early and skip the parade, much to Walsh's dismay. He argued that it was unfair to let only two horses go early while the rest paraded, especially when those two horses were among the favorites.
Walsh's Criticism Supported
Mick Fitzgerald, Walsh's colleague at ITV Racing, agreed with his point of view, stating that it should be all or none when it comes to parading the horses. Fitzgerald emphasized that it was not right for the top two betting favorites to skip the parade.
Did you miss our previous article…
https://www.sportingexcitement.com/horse-racing/templegate-reveals-his-pick-for-the-welsh-grand-national/
