Menari had not raced since finishing third in the Group I ATC Golden Rose last
year to Trapeze Artist and Champagne Cuddles, but had been trialling well in
preparation for his return and James McDonald had been booked to ride the four
year-old in The Everest.His trainer Gerald Ryan revealed today that all was not well with Menari.
"He had a jump out on Tuesday and after he cooled down we noticed a bit of swelling when he was in his box," Ryan told The Daily Telegraph.
"These things happen in racing and I've been around long enough to know that. You can't do much about it.
"It's entirely up to the owners now as to what we do with him. They can retire him or give him another six months to get right."
Menari has long been sought after as a stallion prospect given he is by the reigning champion sire Snitzel from stakes-winning General Nediym mare Isurava, a full sister to Group II winner Ichihara from the family of the great champion Tie the Knot.
A homebred for George Altomonte of Corumbene Stud, who bred and sold Golden Slipper winner and leading sire Sebring, Menari has undeniable stud appeal even without a Group I win on his resume.
Menari has had just eight starts for three wins and two placings his highlight wins coming in the Group II ATC Run to the Rose (beating Pariah, Perast and Kementari) and Listed ATC Rosebud (beating Siege of Quebec, Trekking and Overshare).
