An enquiry was held into the running and riding of Salley Gardens (IRE), ridden by Aidan Coleman and trained by Olly Murphy, which raced prominently behind the leaders throughout before appearing to be considerately handled in the home straight to finish fourth of the eight finishers, beaten by 20½ lengths.

The rider was interviewed and shown recordings of the race; the Veterinary Officer reported that a post- race examination of the gelding, during routine testing, failed to reveal any abnormalities.

Coleman stated that his instructions were to settle Salley Gardens (IRE) in a handy to mid-division position and ride the race as he found it.

He added that the gelding had travelled nicely for him through the early and middle stages, despite being a bit green and jumping slowly at some of his hurdles.

Coleman explained that Salley Gardens (IRE) had made a significant jumping error at the third-last hurdle, losing valuable ground and momentum which necessitated him having to drive the gelding along for some distance when approaching the home turn in order to recover his position.

He further added that Salley Gardens (IRE) was inclined to lug left-handed in the home straight and was not entirely fluent at the second-last hurdle either, at which point he was given a reminder with the whip, before jumping the last hurdle cleanly and staying on one-paced through to the line, and in his opinion the gelding had obtained the best possible placing.

Coleman also indicated that as Salley Gardens (IRE) matures and strengthens up the gelding may appreciate a step up in trip.

His explanation was noted.