BHA apologise to Cromwell

THE BHA were forced to apologise to Gavin Cromwell and connections of Earl Of Bunnacurry after the horse was ruled out having initially been declared for a race at Wolverhampton last Saturday evening.

Due to an operational error, Earl Of Bunnacurry, who had won earlier in the week at the same track, was set to carry 9lbs less than his official rating. He had won off a mark of 58 at Wolverhampton but was weighted to a mark of 52 when declared last Saturday. His new rating of 61 would have ruled him out of the race as the ratings band for the extended nine-furlong contest was 0-60.

Lil keeps rocking

NO one disputes Lil Rockerfeller’s versatility and at Exeter on Sunday he looked like a horse capable of winning a good prize over fences. That had not been apparent from his first two victories but he made all for Wayne Hutchinson at 4/11 in the Smarkets.com Novices’ Chase, jumping adequately, and came home eight lengths in front of Hoo Bally Diva. The mare is rated only 109 so the form is modest.

Where trainer Neil King will send Lil Rockerfeller next remains to be seen but the Kauto Star at Kempton on St Stephen’s Day has been mentioned.

Hanlon off the mark

KILDARE trainer Stephen Hanlon recorded his first career winner when Diggin Deep scored at Musselburgh on Monday.

The eight-year-old gelding had uninspiring form figures but seems to have improved for Hanlon, for whom he was having his first run. The 14/1 shot was ridden by Will Kennedy and ran out a comfortable six-length winner.