MARCUS Tregoning's hoodoo has sadly struck again - ironically in the very same race.

Two years after Mohaather limped out of the 2,000 Guineas picture, so has Alkumait who disappointed in Newbury's Greenham Stakes a fortnight ago when comprehensively beaten in finishing some seven lengths behind Chindit.

The Showcasing colt had been touted as classic potential with a smooth success in the Mill Reef Stakes at the same course in September but then, unsuited by the soft going, pulled too hard and dropped tamely away in a quality renewal of the Dewhurst Stakes at Newmarket the following month.

Though he was not entered for Saturday's 2,000 Guineas, there was a possibility that Alkumait - touted a 33/1 shot - might be supplemented for the race had he run well in the major trial.

It was not to be. Once more, the three-year-old took a keen hold as he was held up in the rear. Pushed along two furlongs out, he weakened rapidly in the closing stages to finish seventh, giving the impression that he failed for lack of stamina.

But a legitimate reason has emerged. It transpired he picked up an injury.

"He chipped a bone in his near fore which has been removed," Tregoning revealed to the Journal.

And like Mohaather, that means he will be out of action until the back end of the season. Hopefully in October.

Tregoning was characteristically putting on a brave face.

"I always thought he would be a better four-year-old but why does it always happen to the good ones."

Meanwhile the Whitsbury trainer will be hoping history repeats itself. On the back of winning the Sussex Stakes at the Goodwood Festival last July, Mohaather became European champion miler.