The New Zealand galloper Silent Achiever has been withdrawn from Tuesday's Melbourne Cup, guaranteeing a start to Irish stayer Simenon.
The 2012 New Zealand Derby winner sustained lacerations on her hind legs, which required stitches, during the Caulfield Cup.
Racing Victoria stewards had examined the mare on Friday as part of their routine inspections of the top 35 horses in the Melbourne Cup order of entry.
Trainer Roger James discovered the mare had an elevated temperature requiring treatment meaning she would be unable to accept for the Cup.
The withdrawal of Silent Achiever, who was 19th in the order of entry, elevated Simenon to 22 and assured him of a Cup berth.
