Kentucky Derby dreams crumble
Tension for the anticipated Kentucky Derby, taking place at Churchill Downs, is increasing, as horse owners, trainers and spectators gear up for an unforgettable day of racing. A magnificent contender field has been lined up for the Kentucky Derby, ensuring that horse racing enthusiasts will be at the edges of their seats throughout the race. But sadly, the excitement and confidence in The Pamplemousse team has been shattered, with the news that this spectacular colt will not be able to run in the Kentucky Derby.
Trained by Julio Canani and co-owned by legendary jockey, Alex Solis and his son, the three year old son of Kafwain, has been improving with each racing event, and has won three of his five career starts. His last two victories, in the Sham and the San Rafael, caught the attention of the horse racing industry, as his performances were flawless, and many thought that The Pamplemousse was the horse to look out for.
On Sunday morning, the announcement had been made by Canani, confirming that The Pamplemousse was to be scratched from the contender list for the Kentucky Derby. A pre-race examination that included an ultrasound was performed on The Pamplemousse, which revealed that the champion horse was suffering from a lesion on one of his front legs’ tendons. Not only does this type of injury put him out of contention for the Derby, but for the remainder of the year. He will now be cared for and rested, and a come back to the world of racing will be scheduled in 2010.
The top contenders for the Kentucky Derby now include Old Fashioned, Pioneer of the Nile, Stardom Bound, Chocolate Candy, Desert Party, Flying Pegasus, Friesan Fire, General Quarters, Hello Broadway, I Want Revenge, Imperial Council, Mr. Fantasy, Theregoesjojo, Patena, Quality Road, Silver City, West Side Bernie, Dunkirk, Musket Man, Papa Clem, Win Willy, Terrain, Hold Me Back and Mafaaz. Many will be disappointed at the scratching of The Pamplemousse, but there is always next year, and who knows, he might just come back even better and faster. Solis has confidence in the return of his horse, and in trainer Julio Canani, commenting to the press: “He’s not done yet by any means. If Julio Canani wants to give him six months, he can give him six months. If he wants to give him a year, he can give him a year. I have full confidence in Julio Canani.”
