Quote from Bgtolex25 on January 22, 2026, 7:44 PM

I know very little about the judging policies but have to think that the horse being taken to the back of the field was a major consideration.  Moving to a prolonged gallop inside the pylons was the only safe recourse.  Whether he should have been DQ or not, I do not know.  I am glad the driver protected the field by getting out of the way.

Quote from MaywoodAl on January 22, 2026, 8:05 PM

It seemed that the 4 caused the break by Green Tea, only option was moving inside. Down the stretch looked like the 5 and Three Point either kissed or got very close.

I think each State has its own rules. I can't remember where but it was explained during replays the because the horse was interfered with going inside the pylons was allowed.

I could not find a specific rule on off-stride inside pylons. I did see some that mentioned inside the pylons while on stride. So perhaps leeway while off-stride inside the pylons. As @Bgtolex25 mentioned, horse took all the way back, so definitely gave up ground.