RYAN Maloney was given the benefit of doubt following his beaten ride on favorite St Jean in the Mistable Handicap. Racing Victoria chairman of stewards said Maloney’s ride on St Jean, which opened up a big lead from the 800 meters, before being collared by the Darren Weir-trained Tooleybuc Kid, gave them cause for concern, reports Racing Network.

Tooleybuc Kid overhauled St Jean over the final 100 metres to win by one and a half lengths.

 

Bailey said stewards believe Maloney erred by allowing St Jean, the well supported $2.40 favorite, to run a 11.35 second split from the 800 to 600 meters.

 

He said there would be many punters who believed Maloney’s tactics cost St Jean the race.

 

“The $1 million question is that whether under Australian Rule 135 (b) you took all reasonable and permissable measures,” Bailey said.

 

“Some might argue that you didn’t do that today.”

 

Bailey said there were some factors - trainer Aaron Purcell, in Oakbank for the Great Eastern Steeplechase, verified Maloney’s version of the instructions - led to him being given the benefit of doubt.

 

Maloney said in hindsight he should have nursed the horse longer than he did.