FAUGHEEN, THE SHORT-PRICED favourite for the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham, will not run at Leopardstown this weekend, throwing his Festival chances into doubt.
Willie Mullins’ star missed last year’s Cheltenham and was due to return to the track in the Irish Champion Hurdle.
But Mullins confirmed this afternoon that Faugheen has picked up an injury and has been pulled out of Sunday’s race.
“We weren’t happy with him this morning,” he told the Racing Post.
“And while we’re not sure what the problem is, he could have tweaked a muscle behind.”
The news is another blow to Mullins who earlier this week saw another of his stars, the wondermare and reigning champion hurdler Annie Power, ruled out by injury.
Hearing the news of Faugheen’s injury live on ITV, jockey and regular partner Ruby Walsh was visibly disappointed.
“I didn’t know… that’s made my day,” he told Oli Bell. “I don’t want to know.”
– This article was updated at 14.39 with a re-written excerpt.
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Thought Dylan Geaney and Joseph Lenihan were very good in the second half as well
It’s about time Kerry underage we’re split into two.
North and South Kerry !!!
@Simon Croghan: I’d say they probably would if they get €18 million over the next 10 years (like Dublin) .
@Simon Croghan: They are divided into separate squads for some tournaments at U16, 15 and 14 levels. Placing an emphasis on developing players from a young age is the only way they can hope to be successful at senior in future
Tyrone’s implosion handed Kerry an easier win. Tactically poor effort afterwards from Tyrone.
Thought both winners yesterday would beat either today.