Jack Romanov
Trish Dunell
Leading jumper Jack Romanov has again been sidelined by injury.
He finished runner-up in last Saturday's Pakuranga Hunt Cup, in what was to have been his final hit-out before defending his Meadow Fresh Great Northern Steeplechase crown.
"Unfortunately, he didn't come out of the race well but he'll keep for next winter," trainer Mark Brooks said.
Jack Romanov has suffered a recurrence of a tendon injury that delayed his return this winter.
Another former Great Northern winner Rangatira will also bypass this year's edition in favour of lesser targets.
He finished runner-up in last Saturday's Pakuranga Hunt Cup, in what was to have been his final hit-out before defending his Meadow Fresh Great Northern Steeplechase crown.
"Unfortunately, he didn't come out of the race well but he'll keep for next winter," trainer Mark Brooks said.
Jack Romanov has suffered a recurrence of a tendon injury that delayed his return this winter.
Another former Great Northern winner Rangatira will also bypass this year's edition in favour of lesser targets.