The Stewards have interviewed Trainer A T Millard regarding an application to remove the pacifier with cowls from ELUSIVE STATE in this race.  When trained by another trainer last season ELUSIVE STATE was successful at its most recent start on 15 July 2018 when carrying pacifier with cowls, a ring bit and a tongue tie.  The Stewards also spoke with Jockey C Schofield who rode the horse in a barrier trial on 31 August 2018 and a grass gallop on 6 September 2018.

Mr Millard stated that ELUSIVE STATE, after joining his stable, had performed well in track work when not wearing a pacifier with cowls and, in particular, had barrier trialed well in the aforementioned barrier trial.  Accordingly he believes that the equipment is no longer necessary to assist the horse in its races.

Jockey Schofield informed the Stewards that he agreed with Mr Millard that it was no longer necessary for the pacifier with cowls to remain on ELUSIVE STATE having regard to the manner in which the horse performed when ridden by him.

Having considered Mr Millard’s application and the evidence of Jockey Schofield and after viewing the footage of the barrier trial conducted on 31 August 2018, the Stewards acceded to Mr Millard’s request for the pacifier with cowls to be removed from ELUSIVE STATE in this race.  The horse will continue to wear a ring bit and a tongue tie as it has done in a number of previous starts.

Accordingly, ELUSIVE STATE will race in a ring bit and a tongue tie at its next intended race start on 16 September 2018.