Ayr investigations gather pace

Following the discovery of a localised problem where the Willie Musson-trained Krugerrand fell on the bend at Ayr on Saturday, a full survey is to be carried out in the next few days.

Eddie Ahern was thrown to the turf in the incident, which came in the John Smith’s Extra Smooth Handicap, but escaped relatively unscathed.

After today’s initial inquiry, a statement issued by the course read: “A hole was found in the area where the incident took place and subsequently the BHA course inspector Chris Dennis and clerk of the course Katherine Self inspected the area on Monday morning.

“A localised problem has been found and a full survey will take place in the next few days to determine the cause.

“No racing will take place on the affected area until the survey is complete and any potential problem has been identified and resolved.

“Dale Gibson, Northern Safety Officer for the jockeys, also visited the course yesterday and is satisfied with the measures put in place and will be happy to ride at the next meeting on a different racing line, subject to the outcome of the survey.

“Racing on Thursday, October 4 will go ahead as scheduled.”