Briefs

Jack Romanov out

Leading jumper Jack Romanov has again been sidelined by a recurring tendon injury. He finished runner-up in last Saturday’s Pakuranga Hunt Cup, in what was to have been his final hitout before defending his Great Northern Steeplechase crown. ‘‘Unfortunately, he didn’t come out of the race well but he’ll keep for next winter,’’ trainer Mark Brooks said. Based in Queensland and South Australia, Vance left Australia with a record of 86 wins, 47 at metropolitan level. Vance will return to the New Zealand riding ranks in the opening event at Ruakaka on Saturday aboard Flash Suggestion, a form contender who is prepared by her parents.