The horse's poor performance was disappointing given his trial win at Albion Park three weeks earlier.

Mr Palmer believes the infection may have been active for some period given South Park Hanover is one of the fastest sons of Artsplace with a best mile rate of 1:48.4 beating Mr Feelgood at The Meadowlands in May. A substantial period of rest has been ordered for the 4 year old before resuming his campaign for the Inter Dominion championship.

To back up Cold Mountain's bid at the spectacle next year the Stud is pleased to confirm the purchase of two promising 3 year olds, Lonestar Legend and Genuwine.

Lonestar Legend ran 1:48.2 at Lexington earlier this month, beaten only by the super horse, Somebeachsomewhere. Genuwine ran a very close third in his race last week in a respectable 1:55.3.

When added to the existing ID09 team member Fox Valley Appeal who will be gearing up shortly for the assault on the ID09 trophy, Cold Mountain Stud is confident of an exciting challenge.

Derek Payne