Chris Jonker’s Sail The Sky wasn’t on his best behaviour in the stalls for the start of the Vaal fifth race on Tuesday, and despite rushing and nudging the gate, was adjudged by the Stipendiary Stewards to have gained no undue advantage nor suffered any disadvantage, and was declared a runner.
In what is often seen as a damned if you do, and damned if you don’t often contentious and subjective judgement call by the Stipes, NHA Rule 61.6.11 was applied.
This states that the only horses which shall be deemed to have started will be those in the stalls when the starter releases the gates; provided that the Stipes after a hearing, may in their sole discretion, and within the time period specified for the lodging of notification of an objection, declare any horse to be a non-starter.
Calvin Habib steers Princess Ilaria to victory with Quantum (Raymond Danielson) staying on for second (Pic – JC Photos)
The Sporting Post fielded a few queries as to why the 3-1 tote favourite, ultimately beaten 3,50 lengths into third behind the 11-2 Princess Ilaria and runner-up Quantum (4-1), was not declared a non-runner.
The Stipes reported in summary:
- SAIL THE SKY (G Lerena) was restless and rushed the front gates. The starting stall certificate for this gelding has been withdrawn. Trainer C I Jonker was advised.
- A race review was called into the start of this race with regards to SAIL THE SKY (G Lerena) in stall gate 5.
- The Stewards established that this gelding was restless and had nudged the front gates open as the start was effected.
- It was further established that the right-side gate had bounced back making contact with this SAIL THE SKY’S shoulder.
- The Board, after reviewing and giving careful consideration to the footage from all available camera angles, was satisfied that this gelding had gained no advantage nor suffered any disadvantage and that this was a fair start.
- In terms of the provisions of Rule 61.6.11, this gelding was declared a runner.
- In view of the Starter’s report with regard to SAIL THE SKY, this gelding’s starting stall certificate has been withdrawn, and he is suspended in terms of Rule 61.6.10 for a period of 7 days and until such time as he proves tractable loading and jumping with a companion.
- Suspension dates: 26 March 2025 to 2 April 2025. SAIL THE SKY may not be presented for re-passing during this period.
