Dancer doubts for Gold Cup bid

Exotic Dancer has suffered a minor setback, which has “raised some doubt about his participation” in the totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup.

However, connections of the eight-year-old, who chased home Kauto Star in last season’s blue riband, are still hoping he could make the line-up on March 14.

In a statement issued to PA Sport, Barry Simpson, racing manager to owner Robert Ogden, said: “I have spoken with Jonjo O’Neill this morning following reports in today’s newspapers.

“Exotic Dancer has been treated by a chiropractor regularly since he damaged a ligament in his back in January and has been under constant veterinary supervision. On a routine visit yesterday, it was found the horse was sore in his lumbar region.

“Exotic Dancer spent some time in the swimming pool late Tuesday evening and Jonjo felt the horse was much more comfortable afterwards and he reiterates the horse is sound this morning.

“Exotic Dancer will continue in swimming exercise and will be closely monitored over the next 48 hours.”