The Melbourne Cup has lost a high-profile runner with OTI Racing announcing on Monday morning that Mark Twain would not be making an appearance this Spring Carnival.
The promising Kiwi stayer, who is trained by Roger James and Robert Wellwood sustained an injury while being readied for a return to racing and is now facing a long period of rehabilitation.
The son of Shocking was guaranteed a start in this year’s $8 million Melbourne Cup (3200m) thanks to his win in the Roy Higgins Quality (2600m) on March 30 but sights will now have to be directed towards next year’s Melbourne Cup.
“Extremely disappointed to report that Mark Twain has sustained a tendon injury at home with Kingsclere and will be withdrawn from the Australian spring racing carnival,” OTI Racing wrote in a statement on social media.
“He will be provided the best care during his rehab and we hope to have him back to his best in 2025.”
The Roy Higgins Quality was the most recent racetrack appearance for Mark Twain, a five-year-old gelding who has won four of 12 starts.
Mark Twain was a $26 chance with bookies in 2024 Melbourne Cup betting.