the toe grab acts like a snow plow on the leading edge of that shoe and the cushion (of the racing surface), causing an abnormal interruption of the slide phase which in turn causes a deceleration of the toe, which in turn amplifies the strains and angulation on the coffin joint and the fetlock hyperextension.
The snow plow effect can cause the toe to elevate as it seeks the path of least resistance… This is magnified if a horse, as it hits heel first, lands in the hole or track created by another horse…
Toe grabs also increase the chance of a spill when horses clip heels…
Leading rider Craig Williams won't ride again until Saturday so he can be at full fitness to partner hot Group 1 C.F. Orr Stakes favourite Mr Brightside at Caulfield.
Williams fell ill last week and had to forgo six rides at the Sandown meeting last Saturday, but his manager Jason Breen confirmed on Tuesday that the star jockey is in no doubt to fulfill his engagements at the opening G1 meeting for 2025.