Bad Luck Bounces Chelokee of the Kentucky Derby Trail

Barbaro trainer Michael Matz will not have a horse in the Kentucky Derby this year. His horse, Chelokee, had a disappointing 3rd place finish in the Florida Derby on March 31st and has not had a strong showing since.

“I think we’ve basically kind of given up running in the Derby,” said Matz. “As much as I’d like to go, I don’t think he’s going to be the way I came into the Derby last year.”

Matz stated that he needs more time to work with Chelokee in order to fully prepare him for The Preakness on May 19th. The colt has experienced set backs over the past few weeks such as breaking an abscess on his foot and having a rein break at Keeneland.

Chelokee is already behind in stakes earnings which was reducing his chance to run for the roses. Now that he has officially bowed out of The Derby, there is a long line of contenders vying for the unclaimed spot.

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