Florida Pearl: has a serious problem with his abdomen it is believed
PICTURE: Patrick McCann (racingpost.com/photos)Florida Pearl comfortable as examinations continue
FLORIDA PEARL, winner of the 2001 King George VI Chase, is "comfortable" as carers at the Irish National Stud continue to investigate his illness.
The four-time Irish Hennessy hero was described as "unwell" by the stud's chief executive John Osborne on Tuesday and the following morning he was no worse or better.
Osborne said: "He's getting the best care possible and is comfortable and happy nibbling grass.
"We don't know exactly what is wrong with him at this stage, but we do have a suspicion that he has a serious problem. We just cannot confirm that yet.
"He has several issues, including in his abdomen, that are under investigation and he's been tested and examined, but we don't know where we stand right now. We'll have to wait and see."
The 20-year-old, formerly trained by Willie Mullins, has been at the Irish National Stud for five years and is joined by 18-year-old Champion Chase hero Moscow Flyer and 25-year-old 1993 Melbourne Cup winner Vintage Crop.
In addition to Florida Pearl's King George and Irish Hennessy victories, his major wins for owner Violet O'Leary also included a Champion Bumper, a Royal & Sunalliance Chase and a Punchestown Gold Cup
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