News: Estrange ruled out of Arc after late health scare
Estrange ruled out of Arc after late health scare
Connections of Estrange have been left “devastated” after the filly was ruled out of Sunday’s Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (3.05) following a late setback.
The David O’Meara-trained four-year-old, owned by Cheveley Park Stud, was among Thursday’s final declarations and drawn widest in stall 18. But she coughed after exercise and scoped dirty, forcing her withdrawal.
O’Meara said: “She was in great form and had worked really well. We were really looking forward to it, but once she scoped dirty we had no choice.”
The Arc had been a long-term aim for Estrange, who returned this season with victory in the Lester Piggott Fillies’ Stakes before landing the Lancashire Oaks and finishing runner-up to favourite Minnie Hauk in the Yorkshire Oaks.
Cheveley Park’s Chris Richardson added: “It’s very frustrating. She didn’t go as well this morning and the scope confirmed a problem. She’s had treatment, but things aren’t right. If she’s fine, Ascot is an option, but she stays in training next year.”
Her withdrawal comes with a €25,000 penalty and leaves 17 in the Arc field, with Japanese Derby hero Croix Du Nord now drawn widest.
Britain’s team is down to two: Kalpana, for Juddmonte, and her September Stakes conqueror Giavellotto.
Estrange remains entered in the Qipco British Champions Fillies & Mares Stakes at Ascot, where she is the 5-1 second favourite.
