Punters who waded into topweight Master Magic on the win pool in the opening race yesterday were entitled to wonder if they were fairly treated when the horse was passed fit to run.
Shortly before the start, racegoers witnessed a display of nerves from the inexperienced griffin who, according to the official stipendiary stewards' report, reared in the stalls. From the stands it was clear he flipped backwards and was eventually taken out of the rear gate.
During the incident Master Magic banged his head and got a cut around his mouth.
The John Moore-trained gelding carried a whopping $9.564 million in win bets and was permitted to take his place in the field following a veterinary examination, according to the report.
The crucial point must surely be that it is not only the physical aspect that matters but also the mental state of the horse after such an experience. This is particularly relevant when dealing with a young horse.
Ultimately, Master Magic finished second but it was only a moderate effort from a horse that had superior form and was confidently expected to win - by trainer, owner, jockey and public who forced him down to 1.4-1 favourite.