In Louisville, Kentucky, there’s been a last-minute change in the lineup for the 151st Kentucky Derby, as Grande has been withdrawn from the race, bringing the total number of contenders to 19. This follows Thursday’s news of Rodriguez being sidelined.
Owner Mike Repole made the announcement, explaining that veterinary professionals decided to scratch Grande from the competition due to a minor issue with a cracked heel, despite ongoing improvement. Repole’s announcement came via social media, expressing frustration over the decision, emphasizing Grande’s clean bill of health from various diagnostic tests, including a PET scan requested by Kentucky state veterinarians.
Repole mentioned, “We were very confused with all the clean diagnostics and improvement all week, why they rushed to judgment to scratch today.” He questioned the timing and lack of explanation for pulling Grande 36 hours before the race.
This is not the first time Repole has encountered such a situation. Notably, in past Derbies, his contenders were scratched at the last minute, including the well-regarded Uncle Mo in 2011 due to health issues, and more recently, Forte in 2023 due to a bruised foot. Despite his passion and investment in horse racing, Repole remains without a Kentucky Derby win from his eight previous attempts.
Emphasizing his commitment to the horses, Repole stated, “We all love these horses, and our number one concern is the safety and welfare of these amazing Thoroughbreds.” Repole remains puzzled about the criteria used by veterinarians for disqualifying a racehorse, especially given the consistent healthy diagnostics for Grande.
With Rodriguez’s withdrawal, Baeza will take the available racing spot. However, due to a lack of additional eligible horses, Grande’s position will remain vacant. Grande was to be the sole entry for trainer Todd Pletcher, who has won the Derby twice, with jockey John Velazquez, a Hall of Famer, set to ride.