Stewards to conduct review over controversial Toowoomba start

Queensland chief steward Josh Adams is overseeing a review into the start of a controversial race at Toowoomba on ANZAC Day, where winner Drums Of War appeared to gain an early advantage out of the barriers.

Had to go watch the replay and well

You decide

Correct weight over 870m@shaneciurleo thoughts lol https://t.co/CdtAjcWQbm pic.twitter.com/r2JS9S5hdH

— Aussie Punting Battlers (@puntingbattler) April 25, 2026

Adams and his panel travelled to Toowoomba on Thursday to question those involved, with findings to be submitted to Queensland Racing Integrity deputy commissioner Kim Kelly.

The incident drew attention after race replays and images suggested Drums Of War may have begun before the remainder of the field, prompting debate around the start.

Stewards initially delayed correct weight on the night to assess the situation before allowing the result to stand.

“Correct weight was delayed to allow Stewards to review the start of the race. After viewing the official footage, Stewards found that just prior to the start being effected, DRUMS OF WAR lunged forward, contacting its front gates, which opened marginally earlier prior to the gates of other runners. After consideration of AR204(2), which deals with a horse obtaining an unfair advantage, Stewards were of the view that any advantage obtained was only a head margin when the gates of other runners commenced to open and it was not unfair. Therefore, DRUMS OF WAR was declared starter and correct weight given,” stewards noted in their report for the race.

Kelly confirmed that while the finishing result cannot be altered following the declaration of correct weight, the circumstances surrounding the start will still be examined.

“We are keeping an open mind to what happened and our chief steward and deputy and a senior steward will provide a report to me to consider,” Kelly said.

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