KARACHI, Dec 30: The Karachi Racecourse (KRC) on Saturday witnessed an untoward incident of stoning by angry race goers and cancellation of third race after it was run.

According to details, public fancy Al Zarrar with Mohammad Essa astride was odds on favourite when the betting commenced for the third race. However, after a while the situation completely changed when third favourite Sweet Touch was installed favourite.This resulted in strong protest but was not heeded by the Racing Committee who let the race run.

The rider pulled Al Zarrar and not allowed to run it on merit thus losing by three-quarter-of-a length to Can’t Catch Me. The action by Essa resulted to stoning in betting ring and paddock.

Racing fraternity feels that the incident could have been averted had the Racing Committee ordered re-betting prior to the race. Surprisingly, no action was taken against Essa.—AZ