Attempting to become the first Thoroughbred to win the elusive Triple Crown in 30 years, Big Brown’s slightly cracked hoof, will not keep him from competing at the Belmont Stakes. Hoof specialist Ian McKinlay, said Brownie had a crack on the inside of the left front hoof. On what has been an ongoing process to repair it, McKinlay expressed Big Brown will be ready to resume preparations for the Belmont as early as Wednesday. On Monday, McKinlay apparently repaired a small trench along the crack that now measures 3-quarters of and inch, and used a stainless steel wire to stitch it up.
According to the hoof specialist, Big Brown’s injury is very common, and not a serious one at all. He reiterated that by saying Big Brown was in no pain at all, and that there shouldn’t be any reason for concern, because there was no infection.
This is obviously very good news for everyone in the IEAH Stables, but especially for co-president, Michael lavarone.
“At this point, I’m very comfortable with us making the Belmont,” lavarone said. “If something goes wrong, I’ll deal with it then. Right now, it’s Rick’s call. He’s going to do what’s best for the horse.”
By Rick, he is referring to Big Brown’s trainer, Rick Dutrow, who labeled his horse’s injury as a “hiccup”, and by no means a setback.
However, the real test will come later this week, when the Triple Crown hopeful, is cleared to gallop around, putting his entire weight on his healed foot. McKinlay will re-examine Big Brown’s foot on Wednesday, when he will probably clear him to resume his training.
To watch Big Brown go for the Triple Crown at The Belmont Stakes, tune in Saturday June 7th, 2008 at 5 pm EST on ABC Sports. And please visit BodogLife.com for a complete list of Big Brown’s probability of a Triple Crown, and everything Belmont Stakes Betting Odds.
