Franco Ledger’s X-rays inconclusive

X-rays of Franco Ledger’s injured leg are inconclusive and more will be taken later in the week.

Franco Ledger was lame in front after finishing ninth in Sunday’s Hannon Memorial at Oamaru. He suffered the injury when breaking at the 700m.

X-rays were taken at trainer Hamish Hunter’s Ryal Bush stable on Monday. Hunter’s veterinarian suspects Franco Ledger has a pedal bone injury or a fractured pastern.

Franco Ledger was travelling well in the one-one when he broke in the Hannon.

Meanwhile a new injury has interrupted Stent’s comeback to racing. Broadfield trainers Colin and Julie De Filippi have been pleased with Stent’s recovery from a suspensory injury, but a knock to a leg 10 days ago caused swelling and concern.

The suspensory has nearly healed.

With the latest setback, Colin De Filippi hopes the Group I trotter can return to trials or workouts in two or three weeks. Stent spends 25 minutes most days in a water walker at the nearby property of thoroughbred trainer Brian Court.

The De Filippis are trying to get Stent ready for the New Zealand Cup meeting at Addington in November, with his goal being the $260,000 Dominion Handicap.

‘‘We’re not going to push him to get there,’’ Colin De Filippi said.

West Melton horseman Cran Dalgety is tossing up whether to start Christen Me at the Rangiora trials on Wednesday or wait for another set next week. Dalgety knows the 8-year-old will be in for another tough season at the elite level.

‘‘The young bucks are coming through but we’re hoping to get one more solid season from him.’’

He will resume racing in either the $25,000 New Brighton Cup (September 23) or $40,000 Canterbury Classic (October 7) at Addington. Meanwhile, Habibti, who ran fourth in last year’s Dominion, remains on track for another crack at the Group I on Show Day. Co-trainer David Butt said Habibti was progressing nicely and likely to return to trials within a month.