SCANS FORCE WERTHER SURGERY

Young Werther has undergone surgery so as to be able to race again next spring.

Connections of the dual Derby placegetter and Turnbull Stakes runner-up were informed that an anomaly in Young Werther’s scans that led to the horse’s early exit to the paddock last spring, was still an issue for industry veterinarians.

After his spring spell, it had been hoped he could be prepared for this Saturday’s $1.5 million Australian Cup, but trainer Danny O’Brien explained the advice from Werribee Equine Centre chief Dr Chris Whitten was to opt for surgery.

“We were advised to put a screw in his joint and we did the operation and he’s going to have three months off and be back ready for the spring,” he said.

“He wasn’t feeling anything and has never felt anything but just off those CT scans they advised us that was the best way to go.

“The horse has never presented lame a day in his life but the CT scan and the advice that Chris gave us for the longevity of his career, we would be better off doing this.

“We went back to the CT scan to see if that area of concern was any better or worse and they said it hadn’t improved.”

“It could end up a blessing for him and I suppose the proof is the pudding next spring,”

Story by Andrew Eddy

Pic by Racing Photos