Quality New Zealand based jumper St. Steven won't be heading to Australia for the winter after suffering an injury setback.

Trainer John Wheeler confirmed the tough gelding would be sent for a spell after going amiss - forcing the steepling star out of the Oakbank Easter and Melbourne Jumps Carnivals.

The gelding, who's feature wins include a Nakayama Grand Jump, Great Eastern Steeplechase and Hiskens Steeple, had races twice on the flat in New Zealand in February before the setback.

The racing future of the ten-year-old son of Hula Town is now up in the air.

Wheeler hasn't ruled out that St. Steven will race again, but with age and now fitness against him, it appears racegoers may have seen the last of the super kiwi jumper.

© Cyberhorse 2024 Greg Irvine Published 14/03/05