One of Henry De Bromhead's leading stable stars Monalee has been ruled out for the rest of the season by the Irish handler after picking up an injury setback before his intended run in the Grade Three Savills New Year's Day Chase at Tramore.
Monalee was one of his leading chances in the big chase events this term after his spirited close fourth in the Gold Cup last term, just coming up short behind Al Boum Photo, Santini and Lostintranslation.
Although not being able to land any of his three events last term the nine year old still showed plenty of talent when finishing in the frame in all of his events, with a close second in the Savills Chase behind Delta Work one of his best efforts of the season.
He returned this season in the Boomerang.ie Chase at Thurles and although travelling well throughout the race, faded late on and ultimately it was used as a blow out for the gelding ahead of his run at Kempton on Boxing Day.
What a finish - DELTA WORK wins a thrilling renewal of the Savills Chase at @LeopardstownRC! 🏇🇮🇪
— Timeform (@Timeform) December 28, 2019
Yet another memorable afternoon for that man @gelliott_racing! 👏
(🎥@RacingTV)pic.twitter.com/AD6EqHWkZL
However, with Covid-19 travel restrictions implemented by the Irish government it meant that he could not travel over for the race and instead was being targeted at The Grade Three at Tramore where he would renew his rivalry with dual Gold Cup winner Al Boum Photo.
However, after another bump in the road which saw him pick up an injury setback, De Bromhead has now explained that he will likely be out for the rest of the season, with before them not knowing how serious the injury was.
(Credit ATR) De Bromhead said: “We’re not quite sure how long he’ll be out for yet, but he’s unlikely to be back this season. We’re just waiting for more information, then we’ll see.
“It’s very disappointing for that to happen, but hopefully we’ll get him back on track again.”