The Dessie Hughes-trained Black Apalachi, on many people's short-list as a serious contender for this season's John Smith's Grand National at Aintree in April, will miss the race and not be seen again until next season having sustained a tendon injury, writes Elliot Slater.
His absence from this year's renewal of 'the world's greatest steeplechase' has surely robbed the 12-year-old of his last serious chance of winning the Aintree marathon, a race in which he ran so well last year when a gallant runner-up to Tony McCoy and Don't Push It. The plan is reportedly for him to come back in 2012 and try his luck, but the gelded son of Old Vic would surely be past his best.
All had appeared to be going well in his build-up to this year's race and Black Apalachi was scheduled to run over hurdles at Punchestown at the weekend. On arrival at the track however he was discovered to have heat in his leg and a subsequent scan has confirmed the worst fears of all concerned with the popular Irish chaser, that he has sustained damage to his tendon and will require at least two months' box rest. Anyone looking to put a Grand National bet on him will have to change their plans.
As well as his great effort last year, Hughes' stalwart was going like a winner in 2009 when clear at Becher's the second time around only to fall when many believed he would have gone very close indeed. A winner of over £450,000 in career prize money and seven of his 37 races, Black Apalachi last visited the winners' enclosure when landing the Grade 2 Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse in February 2009.
Donald McCain's Ballabriggs, an easy winner over hurdles at Ayr this week, remains the general 16/1 favourite for the Grand National.
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