(Louisville, KY) — The 149th running of the Kentucky Derby gets underway today. The one-and-one-quarter mile race features 20 horses battling at Churchill Downs. Derby week has been overshadowed by the deaths of four horses in recent days. Two of them were trained by Saffie Joseph Jr., who was suspended indefinitely Thursday. Churchill Downs described the series of events as “highly unusual” and “completely unacceptable.” Investigations into the deaths are underway.
The favorite for the 149th Kentucky Derby, Forte, has been scratched. Owner Mike Repole did not hide his disappointment in the Saturday morning decision.
The State Racing Commission vet made the final call to scratch Forte, reportedly involving a bruise on the horse’s foot. That leaves 18 horses in the field to run this evening.
The race is set for 6:57 p.m. Eastern time.
Owensboro, KY, USA
36 °F Light Rain
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