Connections of Carlton House remain “extremely hopeful” the Epsom Derby favourite will make Saturday’s race, despite suffering a late setback.
The Sir Michael Stoute-trained Dante Stakes winner has in recent weeks been the subject of much media interest due to the fact he is owned by the Queen.
But on Tuesday it was revealed the colt had suffered a minor injury scare ahead of the Epsom Classic.
In a statement issued to Press Association Sport, Her Majesty’s racing manager, John Warren, said: “Following a routine canter yesterday, Carlton House was found to have a small amount of filling in his near-fore joint at evening stables last night.”
Carlton House worked over six furlongs (1200m) on Sunday and also had a routine canter on Monday, after which the problem was discovered.
Stoute’s colt underwent X-rays on Tuesday morning, but no serious damage was revealed.
“Precautionary X-rays were taken this morning which revealed no abnormalities and we remain hopeful that he is on target for the Investec Derby on Saturday,” Warren said.
It is thought the injury is no more than a small strain, with Carlton House poised to continue steady work for the remainder of the week.
“Luckily, his important work is now out of the way,” Warren told Racing UK.
“It would only be routine cantering that would be left to be undertaken for the remainder of the week.
“It could be the equivalent of a footballer straining his ankle.
“It was not evident in his cantering yesterday that he actually took a false step or anything, and the horse is sound this morning.
“It was a little bit sore and they will be icing, hosing and wrapping to try and keep the joint well looked after.
“We are still extremely hopeful but it will be a day-by-day thing.
“I suspect that it will be well cared for during the day and this evening.
“In the morning a little bit more information will come to the surface.”
Several bookmakers subsequently lengthened Carlton House’s odds to claim Derby glory on Saturday afternoon.
Ladbrokes were as short as 5-4 and had been expecting a Royal gamble, but he is now available at 6-4.
William Hill now offer odds of 6-4 (from 11-8).
Paddy Power briefly closed their market but now make Carlton House 15-8 and are offering a non-runner no-bet concession.
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