Constantinople to get the chop – Racenet

He was one of the most intriguing runners in the 2019 Melbourne Cup but after being beaten a combined distance of more than 21 lengths at his last two starts, Constantinople now faces the unkindest cut of all.

Constantinople was the 2019 Melbourne Cup favourite at one stage after being part-purchased by David Hayes after the emerging stayer was formerly trained by the Master of Ballydoyle Aidan O’Brien.

Constantinople ran an encouraging fourth in the Caulfield Cup before being sent out $9.50 in the Melbourne Cup and finishing 13th.

Since resuming in 2020 he has failed to flatter – finishing last in the Group II Peter Young Stakes before finishing 12th of 14 in Saturday’s Australian Cup where he was beaten more than 14 lengths by his winning stablemate Fifty Stars.

The stewards’ report revealed a reason for the flop but also outlined Hayes’ plans to spell Constantinople and have him gelded.

“Post-race endoscopy detected a degree of internal exercise‑induced pulmonary haemorrhage that may have affected the horse’s racing performance,” the stewards’ report read.

“A veterinary certificate will be required prior to racing again.

“Co-trainer David Hayes reported that it was the stable’s intention to geld and spell the entire.”