Declan Queally and Nico de Boinville shook hands in the Cheltenham weighing room on Thursday, appearing to resolve a dispute that began before the first race on Wednesday. Queally had lodged a complaint with stewards alleging verbal abuse of a racial nature from De Boinville while they lined up for the Grade One contest.
Queally told ITV Racing: “All sorted, it was the heat of the moment and all is forgiven. Best of luck to Nico in the future.” De Boinville added: “I appreciate Declan and wish him the best,” thanking former jockey Davy Russell for intervening.
Despite the apparent reconciliation, the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) will continue gathering evidence before deciding next week whether to pursue the inquiry further. Queally acknowledged the BHA's involvement, saying: “The BHA are dealing with it, so we’ll go from there.” He noted that tempers rose during the incident but hopes to put the matter behind him.
Separately, the BHA announced a full review of starting procedures after several races at the festival failed to start first time. Brant Dunshea, BHA chief executive, said: “We share the frustrations of jockeys, trainers and punters regarding the starts,” adding that factors unique to Cheltenham make starting challenging.
Ground conditions also drew criticism after Willie Mullins scratched Fact To File from the Ryanair Chase, citing insufficient watering. Mullins said: “If the ground is going to be like this, we’re not going to bring them.” The going was officially good, good-to-soft in places. Jonbon, the new favourite, was beaten by Heart Wood in the Ryanair Chase.
Other results included White Noise (40-1) winning the Mares’ Novice Hurdle and Home By The Lee (33-1) taking the Stayers’ Hurdle. The third day concluded with Ask Brewster winning the Fulke Walwyn/Kim Muir Handicap Chase.
