Media Puzzle 'doubtful' for Melbourne return

Trainer Dermot Weld has admitted it is “doubtful” that Media Puzzle will bid for a second win in the Melbourne Cup at Flemington in November.

The seven-year-old won Australia’s most famous race in 2002 but has had leg problems since which resulted in a layoff of over 21 months.

Media Puzzle made his return to action at the Curragh last Sunday when he was beaten less than three lengths behind Solskjaer in the Royal Whip. Although Weld was pleased with that performance, he is wary of sending the gelding on the long trip to Australia.

“I would say it is doubtful that I will send Media Puzzle back to Melbourne,” he told the Racing Post.

“He has been fired on both tendons and it would be asking a lot of him to travel all that way and maybe have to run on firm ground.

“We may decide to aim him at listed races and handicaps in Ireland and England instead.”