Owners Juddmonte have been dealt a blow by an injury to emerging middle-distance star Okeechobee.
A bruised heel and foot infection forced the Harry Charlton-trained gelding to miss the Tattersalls Gold Cup on May 26. But further tests have revealed that a lengthy recuperation period will be required – and it might rule him out for the season.
The setback put a line through his possible Group One debut in Royal Ascot's Prince of Wales’s Stakes on June 19.
"Unfortunately Okeechobee is on the sidelines," Juddmonte racing manager Barry Mahon said. "We initially thought it was a little problem, however follow-up tests have showed the issue is more extensive."
With top jockey Ryan Moore riding, Okeechobee produced a powerful finish to lift the bet365 Gordon Richards Stakes at Sandown in April. Over course and distance, a Coral Eclipse clash with Aidan O'Brien's Derby hero City Of Troy on July 6 was also under consideration.
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"He'll have six to eight weeks walking and we'll review it," Mahon added. "It depends how he progresses as to whether he will run again this season."
- Jockey Lorcan Williams has received a six-day ban for offences at the scales.
Uttoxeter's clerk reported to stewards that the rider deliberately attempted to weigh-in without his saddle after the 2m 7f handicap hurdle this afternoon. Placed second on 13-8 favourite Wavering Down, Williams received three days – and the same punishment for weighing in 2lb heavier than his pre-race 10st 13lb.
Sean Bowen was also in hot water for causing interference when winning its opening novices' hurdle on Dr Seb. The runner-up to Harry Cobden in the 2023-4 jump jockeys' championship was handed a four-day ban for improper riding.
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