Commentator Derek Thompson could not believe what was happening as he called an extraordinary race at Newcastle on Tuesday in which the winner was allowed to open up a 50 length lead and record a 15 lengths victory without seeing another challenger.
Jack Hyde, owned and ridden by amateur jockey John Reddington, was able to lead from start to finish as he clinched the opening bumper race on the card for trainer Thomas Gallagher.
Despite going off at only a steady pace on Jack Hyde, none of the rest of the field appeared interested in keeping tabs on the leader who has opened up a huge advantage entering the final turn.
Describing the race, Sky Sports Racing commentator Derek Thompson said: “Look at this, this is incredible. I’ve never seen a horse so far clear! He must be 50 lengths clear. Jack Hyde is 50 lengths clear of the 13 other horses in this opener. And there’s not far to go.
“He is still galloping. Where are the others? They’re not even in camera shot. This is a marvellous win and a great ride from the owner and jockey John Reddington.”
Jack Hyde, a 100-30 chance, was tiring towards the finish but he was not for catching as he won unchallenged. Paddy Elvis, ridden by J J Slevin, was second while champion jockey Brian Hughes was back in fourth on 7-4 favourite Slugger.
The race drew a torrent of comments on Twitter, many disparaging the performance of the other riders.
One said: “Professional jockeys should never be caught out like that. The winner was 50 lengths in front off a slow pace in behind. The sport’s gone, 14 days minimum ban for those in behind. Absolute Disgrace.”
Another fan said: “Good ride from winner or shocking from the rest?” Another added: “Is it any wonder jockeys get stick after that.” Another social media fan also commented: “Hughes and Slevin should be highly embarrassed. Rode to sleep by an amateur."
While one viewer said: “I was watching it without the sound and first thought the other jockeys decided to not race in protest.”
Hughes, Slevin and Grand National-winning jockey Ryan Mania were among nine jockeys called to a running and riding inquiry “due to their mounts being held up behind the free-running leader”.
After reviewing recordings of the race and hearing the riders’ evidence, the explanations were noted.
