Caulfield Cup winner Durston has been ruled out of this year's Melbourne Cup, with a left hind leg injury surfacing during a mandatory pre-race scan.
After causing a huge boilover two weeks ago, the gelding was set to compete in the $8 million feature at Flemington on November 1st, but will now miss the race.
Chris Waller confirmed the news via social media on Thursday morning.
Play Central, watch all 3 sky racing channels live on the TAB app.
"It is all about safety, for the horse and the rider and the longevity of the horses," Waller said.
"It is very disappointing for all connections of the horse as well as my stable because so much time and effort goes into these horses, it's just heartbreaking.
"Durston is sound, he galloped well on Tuesday morning and my vet trotted him up following this, however we must respect modern science and learn from this."
2022 Lexus Melbourne Cup - Durston. pic.twitter.com/KsXzRxkkYA
— Chris Waller Racing (@cwallerracing) October 26, 2022
Durston will not take his place in the #MelbourneCup following an RV scan that revealed a 'gray area' in his left hind leg. pic.twitter.com/IdsB3dh1wu
— SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) October 26, 2022
Durston will now undergo an MRI scan to determine the extent of the injury.
The seven-year-old's triumph in the Caulfield Cup was his first Group 1 success, and he was well and truly in the market for the race that stops the nation.
His withdrawal from the race leaves champion jockey Damien Oliver without a ride for the Cup.
