Shes Perfect owner defends 'fantastic rider and person' Kieran Shoemark after jockey is subject to online abuse

Social media criticism of Kieran Shoemark has been condemned as "vile" after the rider narrowly missed out on Classic redemption aboard Shes Perfect at Longchamp on Sunday.

The three-year-old was demoted to second behind Zarigana in the French 1,000 Guineas after finishing first past the post, and connections have indicated they are going to appeal. 

It would have been a first Classic win for Shoemark just days after losing his role as first jockey to John and Thady Gosden, who have opted for a "best available rider" policy following Field Of Gold's narrow defeat in the 2,000 Guineas.

Shoemark was subjected to social media abuse after missing out at Longchamp but was defended on X by trainer David Menuisier, who described it as "vile" and responded to one user by saying: "This is not criticism, it’s sheer nastiness. You don’t like Kieran Shoemark, fine, but you don’t have to bash him publicly. Imagine members of the public bashing you publicly about a job you have failed to succeed, how would you like it?"

Basher Watts, who runs the syndicate that owns Shes Perfect, also hit out at the criticism of Shoemark, and said: "Society forgets that these people are human beings. If Kieran had got it wrong, there wouldn't have been a single bad word said against him from us. 

"They're always trying to do the right thing and sometimes that doesn't happen. I spoke to him before the race and said there's absolutely no pressure from us whatsoever, do what you think is best and we'll always support you."

Shoemark received a "hero's welcome" after the events at Longchamp, and Watts added: "He's conducted himself impeccably during a very tough week. Not only is he a fantastic rider but he's a fantastic person. 

"I called him after the race and said come up and see all the owners. He asked if we were sure and if we were all right with him, and I replied that he's our hero. It was a very special end to a bittersweet day."

Read these next. . .

Shes Perfect team set to appeal dramatic French Guineas demotion and call winner's ride 'unacceptable' 

Heartbreak for Kieran Shoemark as French 1,000 Guineas win on Shes Perfect is overturned by stewards 

Cries of 'cheat' and 'disgrace' in the Longchamp winner's enclosure as French 1,000 Guineas controversy boils over 

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