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New Zealand-bred and owned galloper Patrick Erin has been scratched from the Gr.3 Bendigo Cup (2400m) on Wednesday after he was found to have an elevated temperature.
“Whilst this temperature remained within normal parameters, it was decided to err on the side of caution and scratch him from today’s event,” trainer Chris Waller said.
The seven-year-old gelding is currently 38th in order of entry for the Gr.1 Melbourne Cup (3200m) and a start in the ballot exempting Gr.3 Lexus Stakes (2500m) at Flemington on Saturday will be reliant on blood results.
“We will take a blood sample from Patrick Erin on Wednesday and that will determine if he runs on Saturday at Flemington in the Lexus Stakes with the view of qualifying for the 2018 Melbourne Cup,” Waller said.
Parick Erin has drawn barrier 8 in a field of 13 for Saturday’s contest.