So far, so good, says Ray on Copy That - first round of X-ray follow-ups show no change

X-rays of Copy That’s injured knee today showed no change - a small first win, says trainer Ray Green.

“The vets were happy - they were looking for any change - and because it’s not any worse I would call that a good result.”

Green says while he’s pleased there was no widening of the gap in the faint fracture lines on his carpal bone, a week after their discovery, the telling X-rays won’t be for another five weeks.

“That will determine whether he’s still a racehorse or not. Until that five weeks is up we don’t really know what we’re up against but he’s certainly not any lamer than he was.”

Green has been spending plenty of time with the horse every day since his return from the Matamata Veterinary Services clinic last Thursday and says he’s coping well with being confined to his box.

“I take him out for 15 to 20 minutes every day for a walk and pick of grass. I actually put him in the cart or he’s too bouncy. I can control him better that way.”

To ensure Copy That’s muscles don’t atrophy, Green also goes through a routine of prescribed stretches with him in his box.

“There’s only so much you can do but I do spend time with him. I don’t want to piss him off but it helps him not go stir crazy.

“It can be like a railway station here at times with horses wandering all around.”

Green took injured stablemate The Big Lebowski home to his Tuakau property for that very reason to help in his recovery from the tendon injury which sidelined him last August.

Green says if Copy That gets the all clear in five weeks, and is sound, he’ll start his rehab with six weeks on a water walker.

“He’ll then have scintigraphy again and if he clears all those hurdles we’ll be back in business.”