Injury Sidelines Madara as Skelton Eyes New Target for L’Eau Du Sud

Dan Skelton has confirmed that Madara, runner-up in the December Gold Cup at Cheltenham, sustained an injury during the race.

The former Sophie Leech-trained runner travelled strongly under Harry Skelton, appearing poised for victory. However, a noticeable jump to the left at the second-last fence and a lack of finishing speed saw him beaten by a length by Gemirande.

“Unfortunately, he’s picked up a little injury, which I think explains why he went left two out—but that’s racing,” Skelton told Sky Sports Racing.

Meanwhile, Skelton provided an update on his exciting novice chaser L’Eau Du Sud, who impressed with a commanding victory in the Henry VIII Novices’ Chase at Sandown.

Initially aimed at the Kingmaker Novices’ Chase at Warwick in February, Skelton is now considering the Winter Million meeting at Windsor for the Lightning Novices’ Chase.

“All those graded novice chases carry similar value, so it’s more about tactics than prize money,” said Skelton.

“If we go to Windsor, it allows a longer gap to prepare him for the Arkle. Running at Warwick (on February 8) shortens that preparation time, whereas a run at Windsor gives us seven weeks to work with.”

Should Windsor be cancelled, Skelton highlighted Warwick and Newbury as potential fallback options.

“He’s already won a Grade One, so it’s about setting him up for the best possible chance in the Arkle. Right now, Windsor seems like the ideal stepping stone.”

L’Eau Du Sud’s planned route underscores Skelton’s confidence in his rising star, with the Cheltenham Festival’s Arkle Novices’ Chase as the ultimate goal.