Melbourne Cup hopeful Athabascan forced to withdraw with heart issue
There will only be 23 runners in Tuesday’s Melbourne Cup after Athabascan was withdrawn on veterinary advice.
The John O’Shea and Tom Charlton-trained stayer was found to have cardiac arrhythmia in the final vet inspection on Monday.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“ECG reports and the results of blood tests were then forwarded to three independent experts specialising in equine internal medicine, including cardiology,” Racing Victoria stewards said in a statement on Monday.
“They each independently advised that, due to the nature of the cardiac arrhythmia, Athabascan should undergo further extensive testing before being permitted to race again on the grounds of safety.
“Acting on these opinions and having considered additional material provided by the stable, RV veterinarians advised the Stewards that in their view the horse should be withdrawn from the Melbourne Cup due to an increased risk of a cardiac episode.”
The remaining 23 horses have all been passed fit to race on Tuesday.
Athabascan was a $41 shot, but was in good form after victory in the 2600m St Leger Stakes at Randwick last month.
The scratching was the latest in a long list of high-profile withdrawals before the final field was locked in.
One-time favourite Jan Brueghel, Mahrajaan, Muramasa and Brayden Star were all withdrawn on vet advice last week.
Cox Plater winner Via Sistina also withdrew, although that was a decision made by connections.
Originally published on 7NEWS Sport
