Newbury post-mortem results delayed

The results of the post-mortem examinations into the two horses who died following an incident in the parade ring at Newbury on Saturday will not be revealed today.

Fenix Two and Marching Song were about to be mounted by their jockeys on the grass on the far side of the paddock before the first race when they fell to the ground and died.

Two other horses, Kid Cassidy and The Merry Giant, were also affected, but have since recovered.

Although that race went ahead, the rest of the meeting, featuring the totesport Trophy, was abandoned on health and safety grounds.

Speculation has been rife since the horrific events that the horses may have suffered from some form of electric shock.

Thorough investigations have been carried out since by all parties concerned, and a section of electricity cable was removed from the paddock area by Southern Electric.

Paul Struthers, head of communications for the British Horseracing Authority, said: “We can confirm that we will not be in a position to announce the results of the post-mortem examinations today.

“Our investigation, which is running in tandem with the investigation being undertaken by Newbury Racecourse and Southern Electric Power Distribution, has a number of other aspects.

“It is therefore only right and proper that we do not make any announcement until we have received and thoroughly reviewed the results from the post-mortem and other analysis.”

Discussions are also still ongoing as to whether the fixture will be rescheduled.

“With regards to the possible rescheduling of the meeting, we have been in discussions with all relevant parties and will make an announcement as soon as we are able,” Struthers added.

“As the independent regulator of the sport, the safety and welfare of the horse is paramount – as it is for Newbury racecourse and for all of those who work in, and follow, racing.

“We must therefore ensure that, ahead of the meeting, we are satisfied from the post-mortem and our other analysis, and from Newbury racecourse, that there are no outstanding issues.”