Runners in the Sky Bet Chase at Doncaster almost had an extra rival to contend with after a dog got loose in the centre of the track.
The dog reportedly slipped his collar during the race and could be seen chasing down the field on the inside of the track on the second circuit of the three-mile race.
After showing plenty of dash to just about draw level with the tailing-off On Tour, the dog, who was sporting a fetching jacket, dodged under the rail and ran across the track before eventually being caught by racecourse staff.
Clerk of the course Roderick Duncan said: "It was on the inside of the track - it didn't go on the course. It was caught afterwards.
"The owner was cautioned, and hopefully they will see it doesn't happen again."
The stewards inquired into the speedy hound's appearance, but said in a report: "Being satisfied that the dog was originally restrained, and had broken away from its handler by slipping its collar, no further action was taken."
