Former BC Turf hero Better Talk Now hospitalized

Former Breeders' Cup Turf winner Better Talk Now has been hospitalized with a gastrointestinal problem. Formerly trained by Graham Motion, the gelding is at the New Bolton Center (NBC) in Pennsylvania.

Writing on the trainer's website, office manager Sue Kenny disclosed that the 12-year-old was taken to New Bolton on Tuesday and received an update from veterinarian Dr. Fernando Castro.

"Better Talk Now has a gastrointestinal problem that does not allow normal function of his esophagus and small intestine," Castro said. "This problem has led to a continuous amount of gastric fluid build up over the last 48 hours and severe reflux, which in turn has led to pneumonia from inhalation of the reflux.

"The cause of this problem is still unknown, although botulism is suspected. He has been undergoing supportive therapy at NBC since Tuesday and for the first time since then, is regaining some of his normal GI function. His reflux has finally stopped and his attitude has greatly improved.