According to a story in the New Zealand Herald, Queensland harness racing stewards are investigating Mark Purdon's drive aboard Auckland Reactor in last Saturday’s
final heat of the Interdominion at Albion Park.
Purdon, who sat last for most of the mile with the overwhelming favourite, made a late charge with the pacer who wound up having to settle for the runner-up spot. It was just the second career defeat for Auckland Reactor.
Stewards opened an inquiry into the drive, but no charges have been handed out as of yet.
"We don't want to make any rash decisions tonight but will look into the drive more in the next few days," said chief steward Martin Knibbs.
To read the article in its entirety, click here.
Click here to download the replay of the race in question.
It was nothing more than bad
It was nothing more than bad racing luck!
The inside was leaving.
Purdon looks over and there is no hole.
He finds himself covered behind a horse third on the outside - perfect for a horse like A.R.
Turning into the stretch past the 1/4, the driver behind him bolts out 3 wide.
Horses follow the 3 wide horses, and A.R. is shuffled to the back of the pack.
When he finally cuts loose, it's too late - nothing more, nothing less.
A great upset for the winner, and heartache for the fans of Aukland Reactor.
Bad racing luck for sure!