I can't really speak for the choke hold angle but we have seen this before in the Distaff. The ones who have been running hard all year are worn out (or in the case this drugged out??).

Remember One Dreamer, the pre-race talk was Sky Beauty, Hollywood Wildcat, and Heavenly Prize. The really never ran a jump and an inferior horse stole it on the lead.

How about when Riboleta came in off paired NEG 2's, she never ran a jump. Spain paid $100.00 and Lukas ran 1-2.

Regarding Halfbridled lets hope it doesn't go like it did with Storm Flag Flying who actually had two efforts like this in her two year old campaign.

Speaking of two efforts did anyone notice Cuvee STOP TO WALK when they turned for home.
The distance had nothing to do with it, Chapel Royal was still running.