Kentucky Derby Favorite Forte Scratched from Race Due to Injury

By Naveen May 07, 2023

The early favorite for the Kentucky Derby, Forte, was scratched from the race due to concerns about a bruised right front foot.

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Forte's scratch was the fifth this week from the $3-million race, marking the first time that many horses had been scratched since 1936.

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In 1936, 19 horses were entered, and only 14 were able to run.

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Trainer Todd Pletcher had downplayed Forte's stumble on the track during a workout on Thursday.

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State veterinarians arrived at Pletcher's barn early on Saturday to observe and examine Forte.

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Forte had an impressive five-race winning streak and was initially the early 3-1 favorite.

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Five horses had died at Churchill Downs in recent days, including two trained by Saffie Joseph Jr.

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The health and welfare of the horses must always come first, and every horse must be in optimal condition to compete in the Kentucky Derby.

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