Trainer David Hayes has had a shocking bout of luck this Spring Carnival and now he may have more woes to come as the fitness and health of his VRC Crown Oaks hope is in doubt.
Hayes’ Melbourne Cup entry, Changingoftheguard, was scratched on the morning of the $5.65 million race after Racing Victoria’s vets found the imported galloper to be lame despite Hayes strong objections.
Now Livia, currently a $13 chance for the Oaks and Hayes last chance of success this season, has displayed a hoof problem and may not be fit to run the 2500m classic staying distance of the Oaks tomorrow.
Stewards were notified about the issue by Hayes and will inspect the filly, putting her through a fitness test before the race scratchings tomorrow.
Livia’s last start was a lacklustre fifth place behind Run For Naara over 2000m at Caulfield a little over two weeks ago.
The dominant race favourite at $1.75, the Bart Cummings’ trained Faint Perfume, was examined by vets today who announced the Wakeful Stakes winner fit and ready for tomorrow’s race.
If Livia is scratched, it is expected Faint Perfume will shorten even further in the betting markets, as the Hayes’ filly is considered one of her main threats.
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