The sensible 2023 champion hurdler Structure Hill is lame and set to overlook his long-awaited return.
Coach Nicky Henderson stated the horse, who has not run since Boxing Day final yr, is unlikely to make the Combating Fifth Hurdle on 30 November.
After successful the Christmas Hurdle final yr – his eighth win from eight races over hurdles – the horse missed the rest of the season by a wide range of floor considerations, a respiratory subject and suspected colic.
He didn’t impress everybody when galloping with stablemate Sir Gino in a exercise at Newbury on Tuesday.
In a video assertion on X, Henderson stated: “I’ve to report we have now an issue with Structure Hill. He is at present lame.
“This wasn’t instantly obvious after his gallop at Newbury on Tuesday however the final 48 hours he has been sore however for what motive we’re nonetheless unaware.
“I’m at present investigating. This as I am certain all people will respect, is a tragic downside for us and a problem however we have now to report the place we’re and he’s nonetheless underneath investigation, we’re looking for the rationale for it and that is not obvious.
“We are going to hold all people posted however at this stage you’d should say he is unlikely to make it subsequent Saturday at Newcastle however I’ve to emphasize this is not a retirement name. He was vibrant and breezy after his gallop however now we have now this subject.”
