Amid some post race controversy at Ballarat on Sunday, promising gelding “Tavonian” made it a hat trick of wins and remains unbeaten this preparation scoring consecutive wins at Wangaratta, Kilmore and Ballarat. However celebrations were put on hold once word filtered through there was a protest lodged by the 2nd placed horse on the whip rule infringement. It is a sticking point in most state racing jurisdictions and the Chief Steward along with his panel, couldn’t be satisfied the over permitted whip strikes by Apprentice Lachie King gave any advantage and subsequently the protest was dismissed.
It would have been shame to loose the race under these circumstances as he showed tremendous fighting qualities to get up and snare victory in the last bound after enduring a wide run all the way. Co-Trainer, Lee commented “Things didn’t go to plan for him today and he still won. He is a nice horse in the making and will get further”. Lachie King was equally full of praise and is hoping to keep the ride once he returns from his International assignment in France later in the month.
