'The standard is noticeably lower than usual' - Maureen Haggas urges Ascot to improve quality of jockeys at Shergar Cup

Ascot has been urged by Maureen Haggas to improve the overall quality of riders invited to future Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cups, after she claimed trainers had questioned the capabilities of some of those taking part at the latest staging of the jockeys' competition.

Haggas, the daughter of riding legend Lester Piggott, revealed her concerns after seeing French jockey Delphine Santiago win by a neck on her husband William's Tenability. Haggas also expressed opposition to Ascot's decision to replace the event's Ladies team with one representing Asia.

Haggas said: "There are some bloody good riders here today, but the general feeling among trainers is that the standard of jockey is noticeably lower than usual. Hugh Bowman and Karis Teetan are very good riders but, without pointing any fingers, there are one or two who maybe shouldn't be here.

"This is a good event, a great concept and a popular day, but trainers need to have confidence in the jockeys. I'm not trying to be cruel about anyone, but I think the organisers need to be a little more selective. 

"I also think they should have kept the Ladies team. We've just had the Euros, which showed again how much people are into women's sport, so why not keep the Ladies team.

Suraj Narredu: won ride-of-the-day awardCredit: Edward Whitaker (racingpost.com/photos)

Responding to Haggas's comments, Ascot director of racing and public affairs Nick Smith said: "We're really pleased with the new format and it's great for awareness of the event that Asia won, given the media coverage in India and Japan in the run-up. Suraj Narredu winning ride of the day will only enhance that further. 

"Once again both the team and jockey competitions went to the wire thanks to the draw formula that James Willoughby provides.

"As always with these things, there will be cases where lack of track experience and suchlike can play a part. We are sympathetic to that and will take all comments on board."

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