Big Brown's Foot Heals, Two Competitors Step Up

Big Brown underwent a simple, 10-minute procedure earlier today to repair the quarter crack to his front left hoof and is expected to return to the track at Belmont Park to complete his prep work prior to the June 7th Belmont Stakes.

But fast on his heels is Casino Drive, who won a stakes race earlier this month at Belmont, and Denis of Cork, who earlier today turned in an impressive breeze during his pre-race workout. Is Big Brown's trainer or the specialist who worked on his injured hoof concerned about the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes' chances of winning? Not really.

"I've done this procedure on horses that have won on the same day," hoof specialist Ian McKinlay said.




Photos of the quarter crack once it has been repaired, then cleaned and sealed with adhesive.

Trainer Rick Dutrow echoes McKinlay's optimism for Big Brown's injury and recovery time. "Just a little hiccup on the way over there that's all it is," Dutrow said. "The time that he has missed means nothing to me or him."

Big Brown is still the big favorite to win the Belmont Stakes and is on track to becoming the first Triple Crown winner in 30 years.