Star sprinter Giga Kick has been ruled out of The Everest with a torn muscle sustained in his first-up run at Moonee Valley.
Giga Kick was beaten into third place behind Imperatriz in the Group 2 McEwen Stakes (1000m) at The Valley on September 9, after missing the start.
Jockey Craig Williams made a mid-race which saw Giga Kick loom up near the turn before being over-run by the winner.
The ride by Williams was highly criticised by connections after which champion Sydney-based jockey James Mcdonald was booked to ride the sprinter in The Everest.
It was revealed during the weak that Giga Kick would miss the Group 2 Premiere Stakes (1200m) at Randwick next Saturday before a further veterinary examination revealed the gelding has a torn gluteal muscle, which veterinary opinion said was most likely caused by over-exertion at high speed.
Trainer Clayton Douglas is disappointed at having to miss the $20 million The Everest (1200m) at Randwick on October 14, a race that propelled the pair into the spotlight after their win in last year’s race.
Douglas was aiming Giga Kick at both The Everest and the $10 million Golden Eagle (1500m) at Rosehill three weeks later.
“I have arguably the best horse in the country who was set to have a great spring running in races carrying $30 million in prize money,” Douglas said in a statement.
“But unfortunately, he is going to the paddock.
“That’s racing.
“I am still amazed that he only got beaten two-and-a-half lengths last start after missing the start by two lengths and injuring himself in the race, after what Craig acknowledged was a poor ride.
“I can’t be prouder of my horse, who is tough and brave, and he will come back for what will hopefully be a drama free Autumn preparation.”