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Noel Fehily described Rock On Ruby as a fantastic horse to be associated with following his retirement through injury.

The 39-year-old issued a glowing tribute to the Harry Fry-trained gelding, whom he partnered to victory on seven occasions including in the 2012 Champion Hurdle.

A decision was made to retire the 10-year-old after he sustained a tendon injury during what was to be his final victory in the Grade Two Coral Hurdle at Ascot.

Fehily said: "I was gutted when Harry told me that they would have to retire him.

"When I sat down and thought about it, I think I would probably prefer to see him go out on the back of what he did at Ascot, as it was such a great performance, rather than see him pulling up lame or getting beaten down the field.

"He has been a fantastic horse to be associated with and he obviously gave me a great day when he won the Champion Hurdle."

Reflecting back on Rock On Ruby's career, one which produced 12 wins from 27 starts, Fehily is clear as to what made him the horse he ultimately became.

He said: "Guts. He was full of guts. He just never knew when he was beat. He was just one of those horses that always turned up on the day.

"He is definitely up there with the best I have ridden as he wasn't the easiest to train, but every time he turned up to the races he put in a full shift and gave it his best. For horses like that you can't help but like them."

While showering Rock On Ruby with plenty of compliments, Fehily has also praised Seaborough handler Fry, and his wife Ciara, for their role in keeping him at the top for so long.

He said: "To be fair Harry and his wife have done a fantastic job looking after him, to keep bringing him back year after year and get him performing the way he did.

"I would have loved to have ridden him at Ascot, especially now that was his last race, but at least he has gone out on a high and he will have a great retirement and be well looked after."