CHRB offers update in Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf gate incident

The California Horse Racing Board issued further clarification about the incident involving Modern Games and in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf on Friday at Del Mar.

Modern Games had been scratched from the race after being released through the front of Gate 1 as Albahr, in the second position, reared and threw his jockey. On Friday evening, CHRB executive director Scott Chaney said that according to attending veterinarians, Modern Games also had reared in the gate. He was allowed to race for purse money only after being cleared by veterinarians. Albahr was scratched.

Modern Games went on to win the race, prompting boos from fans. You can read more about the fallout here.

In Monday's statement, the CHRB said:

"Concerning the 10th race at Del Mar on Friday, November 5, the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf: Upon review of available videos showing the horses in the gate prior to the start of the race, the CHRB has determined that #1 Modern Games (IRE) did not rear up in the gate, as was initially reported to the CHRB by the veterinarians at the gate. The starter and assistant starter took protective steps by leading the horse out of the front of the gate. The horse did not break through the gate on its own, as was originally thought.

"The CHRB is conducting a full investigation of this matter."