Star Sydney colt Scandalman has been shut down for the remainder of the season.
Connections of the Victoria Derby winning colt were keen to tackle the Group 1 $100,000 Queensland Derby at Albion Park on July 21 but a minor hoof infection has shelved those plans.
“It's disappointing but we just couldn't get him right in time. His hoof is almost perfect now but he's missed too much work leading into a Derby and that's far from ideal.” Regular driver Jimmy Douglass (pictured) said.
Scandalman has blazed a trail this season mixing it with the best on both sides of the Tasman but his crowning glory coming via his brilliant display in the Group 1 $200,000 Alabar Victoria Derby on February 4 at Melton.
Trainer Ian Wilson ventured to the Shaky Isles on three separate occasions culminating in placings in the New Zealand and Great Northern Derby's while his most recent performance was a ninth placing behind Smolda in the Group 1 $150,000 Emerald Final on Jewels Day at Cambridge.
“He's been a warrior all season long and clearly stamped himself as the best colt in Australia this season.
It's been a true honour to be part of the journey with him this year. I know Ian is very proud of him and I'm the same, he's just so brave.
Winning the Victoria Derby was certainly the highlight. That was a magical feeling and it's a very special race to win, he crushed them that night too.”
Scandalman will head to the paddock for a good break now with connections eyeing off the Chariots Of Fire as the main target next season.
“The Chariots is obviously going to be our big focus but there's plenty of other nice races about for him, maybe the Golden Nugget in Perth later this year could be an option.
A return trip to New Zealand for races like the Taylor Mile, Messenger and the Jewels are also very attractive options for us too. This season was great but next season could be even better but he will come back bigger and stronger.”
Scandalman is widely tipped to be crowned Australian three-year-old Colt Pacer of the Year at seasons end.
RACING Qld web news by Chris Barsby
Photo by Ross Stevenson
