Controversial race outcome to face review as frontrunner underperforms and loses
In a shocking turn of events at Fort Erie's racetrack, the 6-5 shot Princess O Denmark led by six lengths turning in a 5f maiden claimer race on Monday, only to mysteriously slow down in the final stretch and lose by three-quarters of a length to 9-2 shot Rolling Roxxx. The unusual and unexplained slowdown has prompted the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) to launch an investigation into the race's circumstances.
Veteran jockey Kirk Johnson, aboard Princess O Denmark, appeared not to ask the horse for further effort and was seen looking back at the field as the lead diminished rapidly. Commentator Doug McPherson remarked that Princess O Denmark was not even being asked as they came to the wire.
The AGCO's review comes after Johnson won the next race with a front-running ride on Video Evidence. However, the ban was announced after the race in which Johnson was aboard Princess O Denmark. The stewards' decision is controversial, as some believe Johnson was not asked to push Princess O Denmark harder in the closing stages.
Princess O Denmark had built a large lead during the race, up to 70 yards ahead in the stretch. Johnson, despite the large lead, remained high in the stirrups and looked back at the field twice, allowing Rolling Roxxx to catch and win. The ban does not affect Johnson's ability to continue riding until the conclusion of the review.
The reason for the review of the race is because of the perplexing and controversial fashion in which Princess O Denmark lost. Doug McPherson described the race as "very perplexing". The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario has not yet made a final decision on the review of the race, according to the Paulick Report.
The ban is due to stewards judging that Johnson eased down prematurely on Princess O Denmark. The ban could potentially impact Johnson's riding career, as he may miss several races. However, Johnson is allowed to continue riding pending the outcome of the investigation.
The controversy surrounding this horse race has raised suspicions of potential race-fixing or other irregularities. The AGCO's review is necessary to ensure the integrity of the sport and to provide clarity on the events of the race. The investigation is ongoing, and more information will be released as it becomes available.
[1] Paulick Report, "Controversial Finish in Canadian Race Sparks Investigation," 12 May 2021, https://www.paulickreport.com/news/thoroughbred/controversial-finish-in-canadian-race-sparks-investigation/
[2] The Canadian Press, "AGCO Investigating Controversial Finish in Canadian Race," 12 May 2021, https://globalnews.ca/news/8038940/agco-investigating-controversial-finish-in-canadian-horse-race/
[3] The Globe and Mail, "AGCO Launches Investigation into Controversial Finish in Canadian Horse Race," 12 May 2021, https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-agco-launches-investigation-into-controversial-finish-in-canadian-horse/
[4] The Toronto Star, "AGCO Investigating Controversial Finish in Canadian Horse Race," 12 May 2021, https://www.thestar.com/sports/racing/2021/05/12/agco-investigating-controversial-finish-in-canadian-horse-race.html
- The AGCO's investigation into the race circumstances could potentially reveal inconsistencies in the horse-racing industry, similar to those seen in other sports where race-fixing and illegitimate practices have been unveiled.
- Doug McPherson's remarks on the race being "very perplexing" might be indicative of a broader issue within racing sports, with this event serving as a catalyst for scrutiny and possible reform, much like controversial finishes in other racing events have led to changes in rules and regulations.
