BHA officials yesterday evening issued a statement that explained that the mighty Altior was still entered for the Grade Two Silviniaco Conti Chase at Kempton on Saturday despite Nicky Henderson earlier in the week making a statement saying he will not be running.
The governing body released the statement calling for Henderson to respond to in the “interests of fairness and transparency” with the 10 year old drifting in the market ahead of what the racing world thought was his withdrawal on Tuesday but in fact, although unlikely, he could still go to Kempton at the weekend.
Today the BHA will send a veterinary surgeon who will examine Altior at Henderson’s Seven Barrows yard and the media will know more from there.
(Credit At The Races) The BHA statement read: “The BHA can confirm that Altior continues to hold his entry for the Unibet Silviniaco Conti Chase at Kempton Park on Saturday.
“As a result of this, the BHA has, in the first instance, spoken with Mr Henderson and reminded him of his obligation under the rules to immediately scratch a horse if, at any time between closing and the deadline for declarations, the trainer becomes aware that the horse is not going to run.
“The BHA has also arranged for a BHA veterinary surgeon to examine the horse tomorrow.
“In the interests of fairness and transparency for racing fans and the betting public, it is for Mr Henderson to clarify his plans publicly as soon as he can.
“The BHA will monitor the situation but we won’t comment on wider issues or any potential rule breaches at this point.”
Henderson revealed that Altior will only need one run before he heads to the Cheltenham festival where he has only been left in one contest, the Champion Chase in which he will be looking to defend his title and land a hat-trick in the Grade One contest.