Bel Esprit won't run 1400 downhill.

I think it is a case of inexperienced owners and trainers in a huff over the Manikato and looking to heal the wounds as quickly as possible.

If it were mine I'd freshen him up for the Moir Stakes on Cox Plate day then come back for the sprinters triple crown in the autumn without the handicapper having a chance to have too much of a go at him.