A MATTER of strides after crossing the finishing line second in the Group 1 Takarazuka Kinen, Duramente appeared to stumble and was quickly pulled-up by jockey Mirco Demuro. He was taken from the course in a horse ambulance and it was widely reported that he was found to be suffering from lameness in his left fore. Although resulting scans and x-rays have yet to be conclusive, connections were quick to rule him out of his intended tilt at the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe for the second successive year.

However, three days later the news became even darker for Japan’s racing fans as it was announced the Duramente was to be immediately retried from racing and would take up stallion duties at Shadai Farm next year.