Jockey hits back after being questioned by fan over lack of effort on gambled runner

A jockey has hit back after a racing fan questioned her lack of effort on a gambled runner.

Stephanie Thornton took to social media to explain the ride on Campai, who shot clear in a race at Sunshine Coast, Australia. Several lengths ahead on the home turn in the Independent Liquor Group Benchmark 65 Handicap, backers sensed a nice win.

As the other riders started to push away on their mounts, Thornton was yet to ask the three-year-old filly a question. The female jockey started to nudge slightly as the pack closed and then overtook the fancied horse.

Thornton looked down and limited her movement in the saddle as five rivals swept on by. Victory in the 1100m event on May 11 went to Imposing Beau, who was only in sixth place when Campai held her healthy advantage.

Thornton crossed the line in sixth aboard the horse she previously won on at the track earlier in the year. Afterwards, racing fan Tom Papley posted on Twitter : "Thoughts on Stephanie Thornton on #19 campai at sunny coast. Hasn’t fully rode the horse surely?? Big market support late as well. Interesting? @PfitznerMiles @SEN_track @qldtrials @Browndogg_30x @camluke."

Other followers of the sport were quick to point out that there was an important reason why Thornton could not ride the horse in the usual way.

The jockey replied: "For those commenting… my breastplate snapped upon jumping out of the gates and my saddle slipped back near Campai’s flank. I give so much credit to this horse for not reacting and acquitting herself in such a professional manner. We were both lucky to come out of this safely."

The post-race report confirmed the saddle went backwards on the thoroughbred's body in the early stages, which caused her to come wide on the final bend.

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