Casino Drive Scratched from race

[greenbriar]

NEW YORK (AP)—Casino Drive will not run in the Belmont Stakes because of an injured hoof, removing one more obstacle between Big Brown and the Triple Crown.

Casino Drive was the early second choice behind the overwhelming favorite, who is attempting to become the first Triple Crown winner in 30 years.

Racing manager Nobutaka Tada for Casino Drive’s Japanese connections said the horse was fine during a three-furlong jog early Saturday, but planned to scratch the Peter Pan Stakes winner as a precaution.

Tada classified the injury as minor, but didn’t want to take any chances during the grueling 1 1/2 -mile race.

“It’s not serious, it’s just a matter of timing,” Tada said. “The horse is OK.”

Casino Drive developed symptoms on Friday, and was held out of his morning gallop. He was treated with ice overnight and showed no ill effects while on the track early Saturday.

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