William Haggas claims another major Australian prize - but Cieren Fallon handed one-month ban and fine for winning ride

William Haggas's incredible recent record in Australia reached a new high on Saturday when Lake Forest stormed home to win the James Squire Golden Eagle at Rosehill.

Lake Forest had just three rivals behind him when entering the home bend, but found a new gear in the final furlong to swoop home down the rail to land the spoils at 18-1 by half a length from Maurice de Gheest winner Lazzat.

However, there was a sting in the tail for winning rider Cieren Fallon after he was handed a one-month suspension and a A$100,000 (£50,700) fine after he was judged to have allowed Lake Forest to shift out from the rail in the final 50 metres. 

Chief steward Steve Railton labelled it "bordering on reckless” after connections of Lazzat launched a protest against the winner.

A protest was also made on behalf of fifth-placed Stefi Magnetica against the runner-up, resulting in a similar month ban and a A$30,000 fine for Lazzat's rider Antonio Orani.

Cieren Fallon returns after winning the Golden Eagle on Lake ForestCredit: Jeremy Ng

Lake Forest, who was second in the Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot in June, notched the biggest success of his career at the Sydney track and made Fallon’s first trip to Australia a successful one.  

"This is remarkable," Fallon told Racing.com. "Money-wise, you can't beat it. It's definitely up there.

"Obviously it's my first time out here – the boss has been sending horses out here for the last few years and they've been coming out on top.

"I was confident, but in terms of career, this probably would be up there."

Lake Forest, who is part-owned by Brighton chairman Tony Bloom, was the only British-trained runner in the field and added to Haggas's impressive haul in Australia, having won three Group 1s with Addeybb in 2020 and 2021 and two with Dubai Honour last year. 

Read more from Australia: 

Coolmore's magical run continues in Melbourne as Chris Waller produces a potential Royal Ascot raider 

'We won't sacrifice safety for the sake of having a runner' - Racing Victoria responds to Jan Brueghel criticism

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