Khozan Injured, Off Kentucky Derby Trail
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Because of an issue with his right hind leg, Khozan has been taken off the road to the Kentucky Derby presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I), according to Al Shaqab Racing's U.S. racing manager Bradley Weisbord.
Weisbord said the undefeated colt by Distorted Humor has an appointment March 9 with Dr. Larry Bramlage of Rood & Riddle Equine Center to assess any potential damage in his ankle, which was discovered by trainer Todd Pletcher March 6.
"There are some issues with his right hind ankle," Weisbord said. "There's something going on there. The Monday appointment with Dr. Bramlage is to find out whether he needs surgery or not. It's not as simple as a foot bruise. He's going to need time off."
Bred in Kentucky by Adena Springs, Khozan was scheduled to work four furlongs March 7 at Palm Beach Downs, his first breeze of three scheduled in preparation for the $1 million Besilu Florida Derby (gr. I) March 28 at Gulfstream Park. The lightly-raced colt was coming off a commanding 12 3/4-length victory in a mile allowance optional claiming event Feb. 22.
The news also came in the wake of another Al Shaqab horse, Toast of New York, being ruled out of the $10 million Dubai World Cup because of an injury. Both decisions came down Friday.
BLOOD-HORSE STAFF: Toast of New York Out of Dubai World Cup
"It's been a rough 24 hours," Weisbord said.