Eldar Eldarov (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}), who was withdrawn at the start of the Dubai Gold Cup on Saturday following an incident in the stalls, is continuing to undergo exploratory tests in the veterinary hospital in Dubai.
The five-year-old, who is owned by Shaikh Khalid bin Khalifa's KHK Racing and trained by Roger Varian, won the G1 St Leger and G2 Queen's Vase at Royal Ascot at three, and closed out last season with victory over Kyprios (Ire) in the G1 Irish St Leger.
Chris Wall, racing manager to KHK Racing, issued an update to TDN on Monday. He said, “The horse in the stall next door kicked out and made quite a bang, causing 'Eldar' to anticipate the start. He must have put a lot of effort into it but the gate didn't open, which is not a criticism, sometimes they do, but on this occasion it didn't.
“But he'd given it a fair old whack and he was obviously concussed, and initially we thought that was all that was the problem. It's looking like it might be more than just a concussion. Shaikh Khalid has been insistent that we leave no stone unturned to find out what the problem is and what can be done about it, and with that in mind, they have found and flown in two vets from America, who should be in Dubai today.”
Wall added that after further assessment a clearer picture of the issue should emerge in 24 to 36 hours.
He continued, “After the race and that evening in the clinic he was looking a bit sorry for himself but I was sent a video this morning and he was looking a lot happier. He's been eating and drinking and that's always an encouraging sign. He's comfortable and receiving the best care. We'll just have to wait and see what is found and what can be done to improve the situation.”
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