Speaking at Ascot on Friday (20 December), trainer Nicky Henderson has stated that his 2013 Arkle Trophy winner Simonsig has suffered a setback and is out for the rest of the 2013/2014 season.
The trainer told At The Races:
"We had to make a decision and [Simonsig] will miss the rest of the season in his own interests to make sure he is 100% for next season."
"The fracture line on the splint line has itself gone.. he's sound ...but there is too much of a risk involved [in running him]. The fracture line healed up well and we'll keep him in light exercise until the Spring, ready for next season."
"We said he was going to miss the first half of season and we would review at Christmas, and we have just reviewed."
It was back in October that Henderson first revealed Simonsig had suffered an injury on his near fore leg and would likely miss the King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day. Today's reports have confirmed that and worse for the Festival winner.
