After 94 starts for 42 victories, time has been called on Tiggerlong Tonk’s career following a minor injury sustained in Thursday Shootout at Sandown Park.

The niggle was enough to keep the son of Dyna Double One x Tiggerlong Dot out of the Melbourne Cup series.

“We are devastated to have missed the Melbourne Cup, especially because he is still racing so well,” trainer Correy Grenfell said.

Tonk’s past two starts have seen him run second to the unstoppable Aston Rupee in the invitational Topgun and Shootout.

“He has been a life changing dog for our family, and we have loved watching him on the track.”

Tiggerlong Tonk appeared in 23 Group races, claiming victory in the Group 1 Perth Cup, Group 2 Horsham Cup, Group 3 Easter Gift, Group 3 Shootout and the Group 1 Harrison-Dawson.

But it was the Perth Cup that stood out to Grenfell.

“He finally got what he deserved – a Group 1 win,” Grenfell said.

“Tonk was the perfect race dog. He gave his all and stood the test of time, especially when you consider he had to face the likes of Simon Told Helen, Shima Shine and most recently Aston Rupee week in, week out.”

Grenfell will hold Tonk at stud for a fee of $2,200 with straws currently available.

Contact Correy Grenfell on 0423 043 235 for a straw.