26/10/2016  Happy Valley  Race 4

After the field travelled a short distance, the Stewards were alerted by the Starter, Mr A Speechley that, in his opinion, the gates had not opened in unison. Immediately after the race, the Stewards semaphored the inquiry sign in respect of all runners as there was prima facie evidence that a number of horses may not have been afforded a fair start. The Stewards, in the presence of all jockeys who rode in the race, viewed the videos and it was ascertained that as the start was effected only the barriers occupied by BUDDY BUNDY (3), THE FULL BLOOM (6), FOX SUNTER (10) and VERY RICH MAN (12) opened. A short time later, the remaining barriers opened with the exception of those occupied by BREEDERS' STAR (1) and GOLDEN GLORY (8). These barriers then opened a short time later. As the Stewards were of the opinion that a significant number of horses had not been afforded a fair start, acting under the powers of Rule 12(39), they declared the race void. The Stewards directed that the barrier stalls used for this race not be used again for the remainder of the racemeeting.