The sensible 2023 champion hurdler Structure Hill is lame and set to overlook his long-awaited return.
Coach Nicky Henderson mentioned the horse, who has not run since Boxing Day final yr, is unlikely to make the Preventing Fifth Hurdle on 30 November.
After profitable the Christmas Hurdle final yr – his eighth win from eight races over hurdles – the horse missed the rest of the season by way of a wide range of floor issues, a respiratory concern 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 mentioned: “I’ve to report we’ve an issue with Structure Hill. He is at the moment 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 cause we’re nonetheless unaware.
“I’m at the moment investigating. This as I am positive all people will respect, is a tragic drawback for us and a problem however we’ve to report the place we’re and he’s nonetheless beneath investigation, we’re looking for the explanation 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’ve this concern.”