Australia’s premier stayer, Without A Fight, is set to miss the upcoming autumn season due to a tendon injury, as revealed by trainers Anthony and Sam Freedman. The father-and-son duo issued a concise statement on Friday night, indicating that the Caulfield Cup and Melbourne Cup champion will undergo an extended spell and rehabilitation to address the minor strain.
Despite the setback, the trainers expressed optimism, aiming for Without A Fight’s return to the racing scene in time for the 2024 spring carnival. In their statement, the Freedmans prioritised the well-being of their horses and highlighted the cautionary approach taken in light of Without A Fight’s recent accomplishments during the Melbourne spring racing carnival.
The statement read, “The stable advises that Without A Fight has sustained a minor tendon strain which will require a period of rehabilitation and prevent him from racing in the autumn of next year. As is always the case at Freedman Racing, the welfare of the horses in our care is the absolute priority.”
Acknowledging Without A Fight’s historic achievement in securing the Caulfield-Melbourne Cup double, the trainers expressed disappointment over the development. They extended their commitment to providing the best possible care to facilitate a full recovery and ensure the stayer’s return to competitive racing in 2024. The setback is viewed with regret by all involved in Freedman Racing and the owner, Sheikh Mohammed Obaid al Maktoum. The focus now shifts to the care and rehabilitation necessary for Without A Fight’s success in the future.
