King Of Kings, as low as 6 to 1 joint favourite for next year's 2,000 Guineas, underwent a leg operation yesterday. The hugely hyped and highly-rated colt was at the centre of an injury scare after pulling up stiff following some light exercise on Tuesday. A small chip on his off foreleg was discovered after x-rays were taken and he was operated on by the Ballydoyle vet John Halley yesterday. A statement from Ballydoyle said "the procedure went well."

King Of Kings' trainer Aidan O'Brien added: "I had not intended to race him again as a two year old, so this unfortunate injury does not affect his current campaign. I expect him to make a full and complete recovery from the operation and he remains on target for next year's 2,000 Guineas."

O'Brien will be relying on the unbeaten Second Empire in either Newmarket's Dewhurst Stakes or France's Grand Criterium while Saratoga Springs is still a possible for the Racing Post Trophy.

Following the Inter County Challenge Race at Leopardstown two weeks ago, when Michael Kinane was referred to the Turf Club over his riding of Western Chief, no action was taken by the Appeals and Referrals committee in a hearing yesterday.