CONNECTIONS of Wiltshire-trained Sky Lantern were unsuccessful in their appeal against the result of the Etihad Airways Falmouth Stakes, with Elusive Kate confirmed as the winner, the British Horseracing Authority confirmed.

Sky Lantern, trained by Collingbourne Ducis handler Richard Hannon and winner of the 1000 Guineas and Coronation Stakes, was beaten a neck by John Gosden's Elusive Kate at Newmarket last Friday but was carried across the track as the winner hung left in the hands of William Buick, who did have his whip in his correct hand.

A lengthy stewards' inquiry ensued but the placings remained unaltered, although Buick was suspended for three days for careless riding.

Sky Lantern's jockey Richard Hughes was frustrated in the aftermath of the race, making his case in the televised hearing in the stewards' room, and saying: "It's a shame, as she's the one who has the bad habit (hanging) and I'm the sufferer."

A tweet from the BHA said the disciplinary panel was satisfied Elusive Kate "did not improve (her) placing by virtue of interference, and the appeal has been dismissed."

Patrick Barbe, spokesman for Elusive Kate's owner Teruya Yoshida, said: "Of course we are very happy. I think justice has been done as there was no contact and according to the English rules, she should keep the race.

"I think the best filly won on the day - she won fair and square.

"Maybe the two fillies will meet again, we will see.

"It looks like we will be going for the Prix Rothschild (Deauville, July 28). The last I heard the filly is well and Deauville is the target."

A decision is expected to be made next week on whether Sky Lantern steps up to 10 furlongs for the first time in the Markel Insurance Nassau Stakes at Goodwood on August 3.

The £500 deposit by the Sky Lantern team was ordered to be forfeited by the disciplinary panel.

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