Aquarius’ future in doubt
Aidan O’Brien’s stayer broke down with around half a mile to run of the Artemis Goodwood Cup, for which he was sent off the odds-on favourite.
Age Of Aquarius was swiftly taken to Arundel Equine Hospital, where subsequent X-rays revealed the four-year-old had sustained ruptured ligaments below the fetlock of his off-fore.
Dr Paul Dupreez, senior partner of the Arundel Equine Hospital, said: “He is fine and is on his way home, supported by a splint and bandages.
“It is not a catastrophic injury, but there are huge doubts as to whether he will be able to get back to competitive action.
“He’s a very valuable horse and I’m sure they will have plans for him.”
Jockey Johnny Murtagh was leading the field, but soon pulled up his partner once the Galileo colt had lost his action.
Murtagh said: “He was travelling OK, but lost his balance for a couple of strides and it went pop.
“It was disappointing as he was going well.”
Age Of Aquarius was backed into 4-6 favouritism for the Goodwood Cup, won by Illustrious Blue, following his brave second behind Rite Of Passage in last month’s Gold Cup at Ascot.
