Express Train Scratched from Classic With Hock Injury
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Photo: Anne M. Eberhardt
Express Train gallops Nov. 4 at Del Mar
Express Train , entered in the Nov. 6 Longines Breeders' Cup Classic (G1) at Del Mar, has been withdrawn from the $6 million race after injuring a hock when schooling earlier this week. Trainer John Shirreffs said the Union Rags 4-year-old was placed on the "injured list" by overseeing veterinarians two days ago and the setback did not heal in time for his participation.
"Well, it is very disappointing, but we appreciate the effort that the teams of veterinarians made in giving him the (potential) opportunity to run," Shirreffs said.
Daily Racing Form first reported the scratch of Express Train on social media.
Owned by C R K Stable, Express Train was a 20-1 longshot on the morning line to win the Breeders' Cup Classic. He ran third most recently in the Oct. 2 Awesome Again Stakes (G1) at Santa Anita Park, his seventh start of 2021. Earlier in the year, he won the San Diego Handicap (G2) at Del Mar and the San Pasqual Stakes at Santa Anita.
His defection from the Classic leaves a field of eight, led by favorites Knicks Go and Essential Quality .