Giga Kick will not defend his crown in The Everest after being ruled out of the spring due to injury.

The four-year-old gelding tore a gluteal muscle during his controversial first-up run in the McEwen Stakes at Moonee Valley on September 9. Giga Kick ran third to Imperatriz and jockey Craig Williams, who rode him to victory in The Everest last year, was sacked as his rider.

Trainer Clayton Douglas has decided to give Giga Kick time to recover and bring him back next year, rather than attempt to push on to The Everest and the Golden Eagle.

“I have arguably the best horse in the country, who was set to have a great spring running in races carrying $30 million in prizemoney, but unfortunately he is going to the paddock. That’s racing,” Douglas said

“I am still amazed that he only got beaten 2½ lengths last start after missing the start by two lengths and injuring himself in the race after what Craig acknowledged was a poor ride.

“I can’t be prouder of my horse, who is tough and brave, and he will come back for what will hopefully be a drama-free autumn preparation.”

Giga Kick was favourite for The Everest. TJ Smith Stakes winner I Wish I Win and Stradbroke Handicap winner Think About It are now equal top picks at $4.40.

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