Mullins rules Next Destination out for the season following setback

Next Destination, a 10-1 shot for the RSA Chase, has been ruled out for the season by trainer Willie Mullins.

A dual Grade 1 winner as a novice hurdler last season, the Malcolm Denmark-owned six-year-old has yet to run over fences.

Speaking on Thursday, Mullins said: "Next Destination has had a setback and while it isn't a serious problem we've decided to treat him and leave him alone until next season when he will go chasing."

Star mare Laurina poised to return at Sandown on Saturday

The son of Dubai Destination won the Grade 1 Lawlor's of Naas Novice Hurdle over 2m4f a year ago and the Grade 1 Irish Daily Mirror Novice Hurdle over 3m at the Punchestown festival in April.

He suffered his only defeat when finishing third behind Samcro in the Ballymore Novices' Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.

Next Destination was third favourite behind Santini and Delta Work for the RSA Chase.

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