The second favourite for the Melbourne Cup, Loft, has been scratched after failing a physical on Friday morning.
Loft failed its Melbourne Cup pre-race physical examination on Friday, with the stable subsequently advising the horse has a tendon injury in its left front leg.
Part-owner Ozzie Kheir confirmed the news on Friday morning:
“He’s got swelling around his tendon and he definitely won’t be running on Tuesday.”
The Marcel Weiss-trained import was a $7 second elect in Melbourne Cup betting markets prior to his removal from the race.
Loft is the second key chance to be withdrawn from the Cup within the space of 48 hours, after Caulfield Cup winner Durston was removed on vets advice.
The result of Loft being withdrawn leaves the in-form James McDonald without a ride in the Melbourne Cup, alongside Damien Oliver with acceptances to be finalised at 4:30pm AEDT on Saturday, October 29.
2022 Melbourne Cup odds
The 2022 Melbourne Cup odds as of October 28 look like this:
- Deauville Legend – $3.80
- Without A Fight – $8.00
- Gold Trip – $13.00
- Hoo Ya Mal – $13.00
- Montefilia – $13.00
- Emissary – $17.00
- Knights Order – $17.00
- Lunar Flare – $17.00
Complete Melbourne Cup odds available at Ladbrokes
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