THIS hilarious mascot race had punters in stitches – before a dramatic finish and controversial winner.
The Mascot Memorial at Epsom on Monday had a bit of everything, from an early non-runner to a late faller.
Racegoers and those watching on TV could not stop laughing at the ‘absolute thriller’ which finally resulted in victory for Victor Magpie, the mascot of non league Chorley FC.
It turned out to be a good omen too, with The Magpies seeing off Alfreton Town 1-0 in their match just two hours later.
The result initially looked in question to the naked eye though as The Brig Cat – mascot for Bamber Bridge who play in the Northern Premier League Premier Division – was a fast finisher on the far rail.
Racing’s version of VAR was called, which showed Victor Magpie a beak or so in front of the runner-up, who joked: “This shouldn’t count, non league doesn’t have VAR!”
Punters piled in with comments laughing at the action, which helped raise money for charity.
Chorley FC themselves tweeted: “Get in there @MagpieVictor #RunMagpiesRun.”
One said: “Think the winner broke out the stalls! Stewards’ enquiry.”
Another commented: “Womble in fifth the eyecatcher, hung left and possibly failed to handle the track. Watch out for him on a more regular track.”
A fellow Twitter user wrote: “I think the winner has done it a shade cosily. Running lopsided with one hand holding on to his head is costing time and/or effort.
“Likely to win again if reappearing soon under a penalty, if he can get his head fixed on properly and run with both arms!”
One comment read: “Harry the Hornet needs stepping up in trip, one for the tracker.”
Another wrote: “The best race I’ve ever seen!”
One punter joked: “Sensational scenes. Better than the Melbourne Cup.”
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