Raqiya was awarded the victory over Jabaara in the stewards’ room after a dramatic running of the Visit Qatar Oak Tree Stakes at Goodwood.
Throughout the Group Three contest, Breege and Kathmandu had contended for the lead, while Roger Varian’s favourite, Jabaara, raced wide. The 5-2 market leader demonstrated a significant turn of foot when urged by James Doyle, surging to the front. However, her movement towards the rail caused Jim Crowley to check on the Owen Burrows-trained Raqiya.
Despite finishing strongly, Raqiya (7-1) was initially a head behind Jabaara at the line. After reviewing the race, the stewards interviewed both riders and concluded that the interference had affected the outcome.
Burrows remarked that winning this way was unpleasant, given his close friendship with Roger Varian. He noted that Jim Crowley felt they would have won with a clear run and, after reviewing the replay, they might have been an unlucky loser. Burrows acknowledged that a decision was necessary, and not receiving it would have been disheartening.
He also pointed out that a positive takeaway was learning that seven furlongs on fast ground suits Raqiya well, even if they hadn't won.
Varian accepted the decision with grace, commenting that Jabaara travelled strongly and moved into the race comfortably. He thought she raced with control. Varian chose not to comment on the interference or the stewards’ decision, noting that they had the benefit of viewing the race from multiple angles. He concluded by congratulating the winner and expressing disappointment that Jabaara, who was in control for much of the race, had lost it at the end.