WILLIE MULLINS has confirmed one of his unbeaten superstars is out of Cheltenham Festival with a season-ending injury.
Anzadam was as short as 8-1 for the Champion Hurdle after a blistering start to life under the Closutton boss.
The TimesAnzadam being out for the season is a fresh headache for Willie Mullins – but he still has a huge squad to take to Cheltenham[/caption]
Owned by Joe and Marie Donnelly of State Man, Sir Gino and Lulamba fame, Anzadam had won both starts for Mullins after arriving from France unbeaten in two.
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His most recent victory came in the Grade 3 Limestone Lad at Naas last weekend.
Jockey Paul Townend said after victory ‘the dream is still alive’ with regards to top future targets.
But unfortunately they have now all been dashed just as the jumps season reaches overdrive.
Mullins said in his Sporting Life column: “Unfortunately Anzadam picked up a little injury at Naas and won’t be ready for Aintree.
“I don’t feel it’s prudent to try and rush him back for Punchestown so he’ll miss the remainder of the season.”
While Anzadam was short in the betting for the Champion Hurdle, Mullins had indicated the five-year-old was more likely to head to the Grand National Festival.
More to follow.
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