PUNTERS labelled the start of Wednesday’s big handicap at Punchestown embarrassing.
A field of 24 went to post for the Guinness Handicap Chase, but at least four runners were left stranded as a result of a standing start.
Runners are asked to use a standing start after two false starts and that was the case here.
But if you backed the likes of Blazer, Snugsborough Hall, Ten Ten or Royal Rendezvous you might as well have ripped up your ticket on the spot.
The quartet were all left dozens of lengths in rear as the field set off for the £40,000 first prize.
And after the replay was posted online aggrieved punters let their feelings known.
One labelled it: “Still cannot get over how embarrassingly bad this is. At least 6 runners having absolutely no chance right from the start.”
Another added: “I had Blazer. Feel robbed of at least a run for my money. Disappointed.”
One more said: “Backed Blazer and Snugsborough Hall. I’m done with Jump racing until they change this out dated rule. It’s becoming a joke.”
Some of the beaten riders were called to the stewards after the race.
Mark Walsh, rider of Ten Ten, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount whipped around at the start and he had no chance as a consequence.
Snugsborough Hall’s jockey reported to the Clerk of Scales that a horse whipped around in front of him and finished his chance.
Foxy Jacks went on to win the race at 25-1 for jockey Jonathan Moore and trainer Mouse Morris.
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