Star stayer Soulcombe suffers another injury setback

Group 1 performer Soulcombe has suffered another setback, delaying his long-awaited return to racing after finishing runner-up in the 2023 Melbourne Cup.

The imported stayer had been scheduled to make his return in Saturday’s Group 2 Hollindale Stakes (1800m) at the Gold Coast, but those plans have been scrapped as he heads back to the paddock following a fresh injury concern.

After a lengthy rehabilitation from an off-fore leg issue, Soulcombe appeared poised to rejoin the track in top company. However, his comeback has again been put on ice.

Managing part-owner Ozzie Kheir confirmed on Monday that connections are awaiting the results of recent scans to determine whether the six-year-old gelding can be aimed toward a spring campaign.

“We’re just waiting to see what the scans reveal,” Kheir said. “Naturally it’s disappointing as he was close to returning, but his welfare comes first and we’ll make the right call once we know more.”

Several of Soulcombe’s ownership group are also involved with fellow import Buckaroo, last year’s Underwood Stakes winner and Caulfield Cup runner-up. Buckaroo is currently favourite for the Hollindale Stakes this Saturday.