Ile de Chypre – nobbles, jinks, and the ultrasonic sniper.

This research article investigates a unique case from 1988 in which racehorse Ile de Chypre, competing in the King George V Handicap at Ascot, is alleged to have been sabotaged by an ultrasonic emitter hidden within a pair of binoculars.

Background of the Incident

• This case revolves around the incident that took place on June 16, 1988, during the King George V Handicap at Ascot. The hardcore Ile de Chypre, which was leading the race by a good margin and was predicted to be the clear winner, unexpectedly jinked and threw its rider.
• The sudden and unanticipated jinking of the horse led to suspicions and subsequent allegations of foul play, claiming that the horse had been nobbled.
• The term “nobbling” refers to an act of sabotage employed to prevent a horse from winning a race, typically involving injuring or drugging the horse. In this case, it was alleged that an ultrasonic emitter was used to startle the horse and cause it to jink.

The Role of the Ultrasonic Emitter

• It was claimed that the ultrasonic emitter, a device capable of emitting high-frequency sound waves, was concealed within a pair of binoculars.
• According to the allegations, this device was pointed at Ile de Chypre during the race, creating a sound frequency that is inaudible to humans but can cause discomfort or distress in horses, leading it to react unexpectedly.
• The claim suggests that this ultrasonic interference led to Ile de Chypre jinking and throwing its rider, thus effectively taking him out of the race it was poised to win.

Implications and Aftermath

• If proven true, this case could represent a unique and nuanced example of racehorse sabotage. The use of an ultrasonic device widens the scope of ways in which racehorses can potentially be nobbled.
• The case and its consequential investigation would likely have led to increased measures to ensure the integrity of the sport and increased vigilance against potential threats to the fair competition in horse racing.