Yeats To Miss Melbourne Cup

Aidan O'Brien's Yeats has been ruled out of the Melbourne Cup, according to Racing Victoria Limited.

The RVL have received official confirmation from connections of the five-year-old following his surprise defeat at the hands of Kastoria in the Irish Field St Leger at the weekend.

According to RVL's official website, the Ballydoyle team indicated that they believed Yeats to have peaked for the Ascot Gold Cup in June, and that it would be unfair on the horse to subject him to a long flight and the quarantine procedure.

'We are extremely disappointed with the news given the horse's credentials and the worldwide interest his presence would have brought to the 2006 Spring Racing Carnival,' said Leigh Jordan, director of racing operations for RVL.

However, Jordan has been informed that the race will form part of Yeats' planned 2007 programme.

O'Brien's five-year-old had impressed in winning both the Ascot Gold Cup and the Goodwood Cup prior to his reverse at the weekend.

Following the news that Yeats will miss the race, bookmakers William Hill now make Headhunter the 8-1 favourite.

Ben Clarke of Hill's commented: 'There had been significant support for Yeats, particularly in Australia, which had given the indication that he would have a tilt at the Melbourne Cup so it's a blow for Ante-post punters.

'Despite his shock defeat at the Curragh he is still one of the best stayers in the World so it's a shame he won't be flying the flag for Europe.'

Melbourne Cup, November 7

William Hill: 8-1 Headhunter, 10-1 Ermein, Railings, 12-1 Geordieland, 14-1 Our Smoking Joe, 16-1 Pentane, Tawqeet, 20-1 Accumulate, Carte Diamond (Doubtful), Glistening, Imperial Stride, On A Jeune, Serenade Rose, Sphenophyta, 25-1 Reefscape, Young Mick, Zipping, 33-1 Cherry Mix, Pop Rock, Wunderwood, 40-1 BAR

? PA Sport