Tests to decide The Quarterback’s future

Tests at the University Of Melbourne Veterinary Clinic in Werribee will determine the racing future of The Quarterback.

The winner of the 2016 Newmarket Handicap, The Quarterback has finished a distant last at his past two starts on the straight course at Flemington where post-race he has been diagnosed with exercise-induced pulmonary haemorrhage (EIPH).

Trainer Robbie Griffiths said tests would be conducted on the seven-year-old during the week to determine his future.

Griffiths said The Quarterback would undergo a full bone scan as well as tests on his heart and lungs.

“If there is some possibility that he can return that will be discussed once that information comes back,” Griffiths said.

“Looking at this preparation it’s more probable that he’s closer to retirement, but that decision is whether it’s now or after next preparation.

“But he won’t see a racetrack again unless he trials outstanding or the test are negative.

“Either way he’s got a great home awaiting him, but to be fair to the horse and the owners we’ll let the experts do their tests and that will help us decide whether he has another preparation or not.”

Griffiths said the EIPH had been stopping The Quarterback performing at his best.

The trainer added that regular jockey Matthew Allen had been easing him out of his races which had allowed The Quarterback to recover quickly from the two recent episodes of EIPH.

He said the gelding had not bled from his nostrils.

The Quarterback gave Griffiths his first Group One win when successful in the Newmarket Handicap.

In a career spanning 34 starts, The Quarterback has won nine times and been placed on a further eight occasions, earning more than $1.5 million prize money.

“The last thing we want to see is something happen to him on the racecourse,” Griffiths said.