Monday 9 February 2015 10:54, UK
Harry Topper's season looks to be over after he returned "sore" following his run in the Denman Chase at Newbury on Saturday.
Kim Bailey's eight-year-old won the Grade Two last year in gruelling conditions but the ground was noticeably quicker at the weekend.
The confirmed mudlark has been officially scratched from the Gold Cup and is unlikely to be seen again this campaign.
Writing on his website, Bailey said: "Harry Topper found the conditions not soft enough for him.
"Sadly Harry Topper was sore yesterday morning and it looks like his season is now over."
Bailey also paid tribute to Tony McCoy, who announced his intention to retire at the end of the season.
"The greatest jockey we are ever likely to see ride has decided that this is to be his last season. Going out in a blaze of glory," said Bailey.
"The man is a genius on a horse and to see him bow out in one piece would be special and very satisfying for all his many fans.
"We will miss him, but my, weren't we lucky to have seen him, and now we must enjoy and appreciate these last few months of his riding career."
