WINCANTON’S Badger Ales Trophy is a valuable listed race worth some £34,000 to the winner and there is no doubt The Young Master, a lightly-raced five-year-old, thoroughly deserved to win it. Unfortunately, having led three out and cruised away to beat Court By Surprise by seven lengths, it was discovered that he was not qualified to run.

The 13/2 chance, ridden to perfection by Barry Geraghty, had won both of his races over the bigger obstacles but the conditions state that horses taking part must have contested at least three chases.

He was clearly the winner on merit but trainer Neil Mulholland or his secretary should have checked the fine details. While it is true that the Weatherbys computer suffered a ‘blip’ and did not pick up the error when The Young Master was entered, that was always unlikely to influence the BHA with regard to disqualification at a hearing on Thursday.

legal action

Winning owner Mike Burbidge mentioned legal action but no civil court is likely to overrule the BHA. There was also the strong possibility that The Young Master would be raised in the ratings without picking up the prize. Emma Lavelle, trainer of the runner-up, said they would not be objecting and it was up to the BHA and Weatherbys to sort things out. When the dust settles it will be fascinating to see where The Young Master goes next because he is clearly very talented.