Group 1 winner banned from racing

Group One winning mare Azkadellia is one of four horses stood down from racing as stewards investigate their ownership bona fides.

The investigation was brought about after reports broke that Gold Coast conman Peter Foster held a silent share in the mare.

The winner of the Queen Of The Turf Stakes at Randwick during the Sydney autumn carnival, Azkadellia is registered in the sole ownership of Ben Connolly, licensed racing manager for trainer Ciaron Maher.

Her Maher-trained stablemates Hart, Loveable Rogue and Mr Simples have also been barred from racing until the Racing Victoria investigation is completed.

Connolly and Maher have been interviewed by stewards and an RV statement said there would be no comment from the regulator while the matter was ongoing.

Azkadellia had been invited to race at the Breeders’ Cup meeting at Santa Anita in November with Michelle Payne offered the ride but last week Maher said the travel arrangements were too complicated and she would not go.

Wowsers! Azkadellia banned from racing until inquiry into ownership bona fides completed by Racing Vic

— Brad Bishop (@bradbishop12) September 14, 2016