Horse racing trainer Aidan O’Brien has been referred to the British Horseracing Authority in London under Rule B83.
Following Cape Blanco’s impressive win in the Totesport Dante on Thursday, racecourse rumours were rife that the Derby second favourite was lame and television pictures appeared to show that the colt was stiff. Race stewards acted to nullify the rumours by requesting Lynn Hillyer, the BHA vet access to the colt. The Irishman refused permission.
"Our vet is down at the stables but Mr O'Brien has refused to have the horses trotted up in front of the vet," Stipendiary steward Robert Earnshaw said. "The lad has loaded the horse up and is heading for the airport.
"Mr O'Brien has been referred to the British Horseracing Authority under Rule B 83, which states that persons must comply with any instruction given by stewards at a race meeting."
The Ballydoyle handler had earlier told reporters that Cape Blanco had sustained a minor injury on his heel a week earlier. It appears he suffered a re-occurrence in winning the race and was said to be looking a little sore after taking his bow in the winner’s enclosure.
Under British Horse Racing regulations Racecourse Stewards have the power to impose a fine not exceeding £15,000.
