Follow Up Report

BATHURST 17/07/2026

Race 10, SAM THE MAN & BABY EL AY - Inquiry Concluded

BABY EL AY: Stewards resumed an inquiry adjourned from the Bathurst meeting on 17 July2026 into the tactics adopted by Driver Ella Turnbull in this event. At the resumption of the inquiry, Miss Turnbull explained that it had been her intention to utilise the inside barrier and surrender the lead if possible. Miss Turnbull stated that shortly after the start, BABY EL AY hung out and subsequently over-raced, which prevented her from restraining the gelding despite being aware of the fast lead time being established. Miss Turnbull added that, had she been able to restrain BABY EL AY, she would have been content to surrender the lead to SAM THE MAN however when attempting to restrain when SAM THE MAN improved towards her outside BABY EL AY commenced to race keenly again and SAM THE MAN was unable to muster the required speed to cross her runner. After considering the evidence, reviewing the available race footage, and noting that a post-race veterinary examination revealed no significant abnormalities, Stewards were satisfied that the racing manners of BABY EL AY contributed significantly to the circumstances of the event. Consequently, BABY EL AY was placed on its last chance to race truly.

SAM THE MAN: Stewards resumed an inquiry into the tactics adopted by Driver Sheree Chellas. After considering all of the evidence and reviewing the available race footage, driver Sheree Chellas was issued a reprimand under Rule 149(2) for unacceptable driving in that Miss Chellas's decision to challenge for the lead during the first half on a number of occasions after a fast lead time had been established were unacceptable in the opinion of the Stewards. Stewards advised Miss Chellas that after being unsuccessful in the early stages when challenging for the lead, Miss Chellas should have raced in the position outside of the leader and provide her runner respite. In not taking more severe action, Stewards were mindful that the racing manners of BABY EL AY contributed to the circumstances of the event, and also took into account Miss Chellas's relative inexperience, having had approximately twenty race drives over the past few seasons. Stewards further advised Miss Chellas that, having regard to the exposed race form of SAM THE MAN, they would expect the gelding to be driven in a more conservative manner until its race performances demonstrate that more aggressive driving tactics are warranted.