Melbourne Cup fancy White Marlin has been ruled out of the spring carnival and is not expected to be seen again this season.
Co-trainer Adrian Bott confirmed at Randwick races on Saturday that the emerging stayer had presented with a tendon issue that would require an extended spell.
However, Bott was optimistic White Marlin could return for a tilt at the Cups next spring.
“Unfortunately, I think he sustained an injury coming out of his most recent trial,” Bott said.
“That has just flared up today and he will require a prolonged spell.
“He is out for this carnival, and I’d say next carnival as well, but we might be able to see him back twelve months later.”
White Marlin has won six of his eight starts, highlighted by the Group 3 Easter Cup (2100m) at Sandown in April, while he was runner-up in the Andrew Ramsden Stakes (2800m) at Flemington in March.
White Marlin was a $17 chance with Boombet for the 2023 Melbourne Cup prior to the news.
