Punters lose out as Weekend Offender is stuck in stalls

Is it time for a change in the rules? The Kevin Ryan-trained Weekend Offender was the 4-1 joint favourite for the £30,000 mile handicap but his backers got no run for their money. When the stalls opened he had his off-hind leg trapped under the stalls running board so he exited awkwardly and, with his blindfold still on, was immediately pulled up by Tom Eaves.

Because his stall had opened correctly and his jockey was on board he was deemed a runner under the current rules. Only he wasn't – at no stage did he break into a run.

Some firms announced they would refund stakes, but it is a most unsatisfactory affair.