White Marlin Nears Comeback After 18-Month Injury Layoff

White Marlin, the esteemed former favorite for the Melbourne Cup, is getting closer to making his comeback to competitive racing in 2025 after an extended 18-month layoff due to injury. The seven-year-old gelding, under the expert training of the renowned Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott, has faced a tough rehabilitation journey. However, all indications now suggest a highly anticipated return. Both racing fans and professionals are eagerly looking forward to the return of this thrilling stayer, who had already established himself as a formidable contender for the sport's most prestigious accolades during his early career.

White Marlin's early career was truly remarkable. He secured victory in his first six races, winning over racing fans and experts alike with his incredible talent, rapid speed, and strong finishing capability. His impressive performances quickly attracted the attention of trainers, owners, and racing enthusiasts nationwide. Unfortunately, in August of the previous year, his promising run was unexpectedly interrupted by a tendon injury, which took him out of competition. Nevertheless, the Waterhouse-Bott stable remains cautiously hopeful regarding his recovery and the potential for his future performances.

The stable has recently announced that White Marlin has successfully completed most of his rehabilitation and has been enjoying a spell over the past month to facilitate his full recovery. This rest period is essential to ensure the horse regains his fitness and is prepared to return to his best form. While he will continue resting for the next two weeks, the team has revealed that he will soon commence his pre-training program, which will be the first step toward his eventual comeback to racing. His last appearance on the track was at the 2023 Andrew Ramsden Stakes, where he impressively placed second, showcasing his ongoing potential despite the extended hiatus from competitive racing.

"White Marlin is making good progress, and we are optimistic about his recovery so far," stated the Waterhouse-Bott stable, conveying their positivity to Racing.com. The team is confident in his capacity to regain peak performance, despite the extended break. However, there are still challenges ahead. Prior to his return to racing, White Marlin must satisfy several important requirements. A veterinary clearance and ultrasound results will be essential, and these documents need to be submitted to the Racing Victoria stewards for approval before the gelding can officially step back onto the track.

The early racing statistics of White Marlin showcase a bright future. With six victories out of eight races and never placing lower than second, his thrilling performances have solidified his status as one of Australia’s most exhilarating stayers. Additionally, his lineage is impressive, with his sire, Mastercraftsman, being a renowned stallion known for siring exceptional horses. These elements have only intensified the anticipation regarding his future opportunities, particularly in light of the fierce competition he will encounter in the upcoming Melbourne Cup season.

As White Marlin approaches his return to the racetrack, the anticipation surrounding the 2025 Melbourne Cup continues to grow. The Waterhouse-Bott stable, known for its proactive approach, has also made significant acquisitions, including the Irish stayer Vauban and the skilled import Delius. These additions reflect the stable’s steadfast dedication to forming a formidable lineup for the upcoming spring carnival. With their strong roster and the promising comeback of White Marlin, the stable is well-positioned as one of the frontrunners for next year’s Melbourne Cup.

The anticipated return of White Marlin is generating excitement among both racing enthusiasts and industry professionals. His rehabilitation journey, alongside his early achievements, fuels optimism that this talented stayer will once again shine on the racetrack and regain his status among Australia's racing elite. As he gears up for his comeback, the racing community is eagerly watching, curious to see if White Marlin can restore the form that established him as one of the most thrilling competitors in the sport prior to his injury. His return to competition is set to be one of the most discussed events in Australian horse racing in the coming year.