Laustra ruled of The Ladbroke at Ascot

David Pipe has ruled the well-backed Laustra Bad out of The Ladbroke at Ascot on Saturday.

The four-year-old made a pleasing return to action at Ascot last month and was as low as 10-1 with the sponsors for the handicap hurdle.

But Pipe has decided against the competitive affair and will look for another opening in the coming weeks.

Pipe said: “He’s not quite 100% and there are plenty of other races for him.

“He is only a four-year-old and they usually struggle in the race.”

The Nicholashayne handler won The Ladbroke 12 months ago with Acambo, with his father, Martin Pipe, also successful with Desert Air and Tamarinbleu in recent years.

“He (Laustra Bad) was our only entry so we won’t be having a runner this year,” added Pipe.