Racing NSW stewards have concluded an inquiry into apprentice Sam Clipperton's riding of Urgent Bells when second at Wyong on December 21.
In the course of the inquiry evidence was taken on December 21 from Clipperton, stable representative Cameron Swan representing trainer Kris Lees, industry training mentor Patrick Webster and Racing NSW betting steward Terry Griffin.
Further evidence was taken today from Clipperton and his master Ron Quinton.
Stewards reported that an investigation of betting surrounding the race revealed no integrity concerns.
Clipperton explained that he had been instructed to be midfield and that rounding the home turn he elected to shift back to the inside of Seqsationaland improve between that horse and Rockaway Star.
He was of the view that Seqsational, which had shifted out quickly, would continue to move wider and he would be able to save ground.
He added that on straightening he became awkwardly placed close to the heels of Rockaway Star, which was weakening, and was disappointed for a run between that horse and Seqsational when both horses shifted ground.
He added that at that point he was obliged to check his mount and come to the outside of Seqsational whereby Urgent Bells ran on strongly over the final 150 metres.
Clipperton agreed with stewards that he had made an error by shifting back to the inside of Seqsational and in hindsight, he should have continued to improve around that horse rounding the home turn which would have afforded him an unimpeded run to the finish.
The stewards decided not to issue a charge against Clipperton, being mindful that the apprentice made the decision to improve between Seqsational and Rockaway Star where there was sufficient room for him to proceed into that opening.
However, when both Seqsational and Rockaway Star shifted ground, this resulted in that run closing and Urgent Bells being checked and then shifted to the outside.
The stewards were also mindful of Clipperton's relative inexperience as a rider.
