The last time we saw Floating Artist the English import was finishing fourth in the 2021 Melbourne Cup.
Now, the galloper is making a long-awaited comeback. He is due to return after a more than 500-day absence from the track and could yet be on course for the race Goldman has moved into favouritism for.
Paddock Injury Forced Cup Fourth Out
Gelding son of Nathaniel Floating Artist, it is hoped, can hit the ground running after his long racing sabbatical.
The seven-year-old, formerly trained by Richard Hannon, goes for a Benchmark 100 race over 1400 metres at Bendigo. This will be the first time we’ve seen him since he was a gallant fourth behind star mare Verry Elleegant at Flemington in November 2021.
It was not a racing injury as such which forced Floating Artist out of the game. A rather unlikely paddock injury was to blame. The gelding managed to fracture the accessory carpal bone, located behind the knee. That mishap forced him out of the sport with, at the time, no date for a comeback pencilled in.
Trainer David Eustace, who handles Floating Artist in partnership with Ciaron Maher, has spoken this week to say he thinks they’ve got the horse spot-on now.
It is likely the injury came when the horse rolled around in his rug, catching his leg in it.
Even after such a long time out, a big run is expected. He will step up in distance in good time and may yet be given the chance to improve on his 2021 Melbourne Cup finish.
Earl of Tyrone Suffers Setback
On the subject of potential Melbourne Cup horses with injuries, Earl Of Tyrone is to miss his autumn Australian targets.
Having arrived in Sydney with three other William Haggas trainees from England, he was expected to take part in the Sydney Cup. He has now had an injury setback which keeps him off the track for a while.
He will make a return this year and he remains a $34 shot for the Cup. He’s likely to be targeted at all the big staying races in England and/or Europe throughout the Northern Hemisphere summer.
English Staying Division Strong
Even without Kyprios, who won’t make the Ascot Gold Cup, staying races in England are strong this year. Many trainers are plotting a trip to Melbourne, making this division one to keep an eye on.
Races to look out for include the Yorkshire Cup and the Sagaro Stakes in May. During the European summer there is also the Ascot Gold Cup and the Goodwood Cup. Back at York, the Ebor Handicap and the Lonsdale Cup are major races, followed by the St Leger and the Irish St Leger in September.
Read more news about the Melbourne Cup.
