AN amazing three-way photo finish sparked a controversial stewards’ enquiry on day one of the Aintree Grand National Festival.
And there was more drama at its conclusion with the first past the post keeping the race despite appearing to cause interference.
Impaire Et Passe was eventually named official winner of the Grade 1 William Hill Aintree Hurdle.
But he appeared to clash with Langer Dan and Bob Olinger in the thrilling closing stages.
It went down to a dramatic photo finish with Cheltenham Festival winner Langer Dan splitting the two Irish horses.
Initially it looked like Bob Olinger, ridden by Rachael Blackmore, had got up on the line.
But the photo proved evens favourite Impaire Et Passe was in front by a nose.
That result was not confirmed for 20 minutes though as Blackmore passionately argued why her horse should have been named the winner.
More to follow.
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