Bumpy Road to the Kentucky Derby

Today’s announcement of the injury of Far From Over is another reminder of just how fragile these three-year-olds are, and just how fleeting the dreams of Kentucky Derby glory can be. It is always saddening and frustrating when our "Derby Horse" is knocked off the trail, though we know down deep it is the right move for the safety and health of the horse. We remain hopeful for their healthy return to the track later in their career, but can only wonder what they would have done in the Derby! I compiled a list of some of the biggest defections over the past few years, many that still leave me wondering.

2014- CONSTITUTION

Just last year I saw my early Derby horse knocked from the trail due to a hairline fracture. He had just won the Florida Derby in impressive style and I was ready for victory in May. Thankfully, he has returned to the track and looked extremely impressive in the Donn. After his defection, I moved on to HOPPERTUNITY, need I say that 2014 was rough year for me?

2013- SHANGHAI BOBBY

The BC Juvenile winner was atop many lists heading into 2013, however a pelvic stress fracture in the Florida Derby sidelined him from Triple Crown action. He would return to the track just once more, winning the Aljamin in September of 2013. However, further injury would force his early retirement that same year.

2012- SECRET CIRCLE

He was the winner of the BC Juvenile Sprint and Risen Star, however injury in the Arkansas Derby caused him to miss the Derby. He would return to action in 2013 and win the BC Sprint by a neck. He continues to find success on the track to this day with a current record of 16-8-6-1

2011- UNCLE MO

The two-year-old champion looked impressive throughout the early months of 2011, but a gastrointestinal infection would cause him to drop more than 70 lbs in the weeks leading up to the Derby. Nonetheless, he was entered in the race, only to be scratched the morning before. He went on to finish 2nd in the King's Bishop, win the Kelso, and finish a distant 10th in the BC Classic that year. He retired from racing prior to his four-year-old campaign.

2010- ESKENDEREYA

Triple Crown hopes were high in 2010 thanks to this impressive animal. He was dominant in both the Fountain of Youth and Wood Memorial, however a leg injury would knock him off the trail and lead to an early retirement.

2009- OLD FASHIONED

Another one of my early Derby favorites suffered a non-displaced slab fracture in the Arkansas Derby. Unfortunately, he never returned to the track to follow up his impressive victories in the Southwest and Remsen Stakes.

A little more than 4 weeks separate us from that first Saturday in May. Prep season is in full force and we are still hopeful that all of the top contenders are able to make a run for the roses. I pray that all of the horses remain healthy and safe as they make their ways to Louisville and beyond!