Win for The Young Master shrouded in controversy

Updated: Saturday, 08 Nov 2014 18:21 | Comments Regardless of the ultimate outcome of the Badger Ales Trophy, the aptly-named five-year-old The Young Master looks an exciting prospect over fences

There was a highly unusual twist to result of the Badger Ales Trophy at Wincanton when it emerged the winning horse was not eligible to take part.

Neil Mulholland's five-year-old The Young Master (13-2), who scored by an impressive seven lengths, had made only two previous starts over fences to his name when the conditions of the Listed handicap chase required him to have had three.

Confusion reigned at the Somerset track before the stewards held an inquiry after the last race.

The issue will now be referred to the British Horseracing Authority for further investigation.

Though the result stood for betting purposes, The Young Master could be stripped of the valuable prize in due course.

Court By Surprise was second past the post.

Simon Cowley, a stipendiary steward on duty at the course, said: "We were made aware of the potential ineligibility of The Young Master and have interviewed Neil Mulholland.

"We have no authority to disqualify after the 'weighed in' and we have referred it to the BHA."

A BHA statement read: "We have been made aware of the potential issue surrounding the eligibility of The Young Master to compete in the Badger Ales Trophy.

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Win for The Young Master shrouded in controversy