Sky Lantern team to appeal against Etihad Airways Falmouth Stakes result

Elusive Kate and Sky Lantern contest the controversial finish of the Etihad Airways Falmouth Stakes. Image courtesy of racingfotos.com.

Sky Lantern’s connections have decided to appeal agaist the result of the stewards’ enquiry which followed the controversial final furlong in the Etihad Airways Falmouth Stakes on Newmarket’s July Course last Friday.

Elusive Kate made all the running, but veered left inside the final furlong, taking the challenging Sky Lantern with her.

Elusive Kate’s jockey, William Buick, did everything he could to keep his horse straight, but to no avail.

His whip struck Sky Lantern in the face which her jockey, Richard Hughes, said intimidated her and made it impossible for her to get past the winner.

Assistant trainer Richard Hannon jnr said today: "I think we are going to appeal. We have discussed it and spoken to a few people and we think we might as well have a shot."

The Group 1 Markel Insurance Nassau Stakes at Goodwood on 3 August, run over a mile and a quarter, could be next on the agenda for Sky Lantern.

Hannon continued: "There is a fair chance Sky Lantern might go for the Nassau.

"She’s come out of her race exceptionally well. She settles very well, we saw that in the Falmouth. She is obviously very easy to manoeuvre in a race.

"Hughesie is adamant she will get a mile and a quarter no problem and I can’t see a reason why not.

"We are very keen to go for the Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare and that’s a mile and quarter on turf so it’s probably a good idea we try it out before we go and spend a fortune going there and finding out over there."