An enquiry was held into the running and riding of Green Or Black (IRE), ridden by Mr Edward Rees and trained by Evan Williams, which jumped off in rear where she remained for most of the race, until being asked for a minimal effort in the home straight to finish last of five runners, beaten by 17 ½ lengths.

The rider was interviewed and shown recordings of the race, the trainer was interviewed by telephone, and the Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of Green Or Black (IRE) failed to reveal any abnormalities.

Being a 7lb claiming amateur rider, Mr Rees was accompanied in the enquiry by a jockey coach.

The rider stated that it was his first ever ride, but he knew the filly well.

He added that having made a mistake early on, he had wanted Green Or Black (IRE) to have sight of her fences as her jumping isn’t the best, and that hurrying her along would only make her jumping worse.

He further added that he felt he had kept the filly up to her work by giving her a couple of slaps here and there, but again hadn’t wanted to hurry her into her fences.

Rees then stated that he felt that he had made an effort entering the home straight but that Green Or Black (IRE) was making no impression on the finishers in front by that time.

The trainer stated that he had asked Mr Rees to ensure that Green Or Black (IRE) had a clear sight of her fences and to jump them all in the middle, and added that he was happy with the ride given by Mr Rees, and that it accorded with the instructions given.

Their explanations were noted; Green Or Black (IRE) was routine tested.