Aloha Star Connections Appeal Phoenix Stakes Demotion

Connections of Keeneland Phoenix Stakes (G1) third-placed Aloha Star have lodged an appeal against the stewards' decision to demote her from second in the Aug. 9 group 1 feature, with a date for the hearing to be finalized over the coming days.

The Fozzy Stack-trained 2-year-old proved her 33-1 success in the Airlie Stud Balanchine Stakes (G2) was no fluke when finishing second past the post under Chris Hayes at the Curragh, but the placings were revised following a stewards' inquiry that saw The Lir Jet promoted to second.

A short head separated the pair at the line after a dueling battle in the closing stages, with the Starspangledbanner filly shifting to her left and deemed to have intimidated Michael Bell's Norfolk Stakes (G2) winner.

Hayes also received a one-day ban after the stewards felt he failed to take reasonable steps to avoid causing interference.

The prize-money structures for the six-furlong event awarded €40,000 to the runner-up and €20,000 to the third, while the winner Lucky Vega, 3 1/2 lengths clear in front, collected €120,000.

Speaking on Monday, Stack told the Racing Post: "We've lodged an appeal this morning. She ran a great race and has come out of it well so we'll see what happens."

Regardless of the appeal's outcome, Aloha Star surely enhanced her value with the placed effort, a timely boost for connections as she is entered in the Tattersalls Online August Sale, which runs Aug. 12-14.

Stack explained: "We'll see how things go, but if she was bought by somebody who would keep her with us, I'd imagine she'd go for the Cheveley Park Stakes (G1) next."

The Tipperary-based handler also saw his 80-1 outsider Bubbles On Ice finish a highly creditable sixth in the Phoenix.

He added: "Bubbles On Ice is a smart filly, and we were happy with her. She'll appreciate going back up in trip."