USA: Leading Kentucky Derby contender Arabian Knight is out for the reckoning for Churchill Downs, according to a statement issued by owners Zedan Racing.
The $2.3 million colt, who has won both starts for Bob Baffert by a cumulative 12¾ lengths, was promoted to Derby favorite after winning the G3 Southwest Stakes by 5½ lengths in January.
He was subsequently transferred alongside several other Baffert horses to the barn of the the trainer’s former assistant Tim Yakteen with a view to earning Kentucky Derby points in his next starts.
However, according to a statement on Twitter, Arabian Knight will now be given some time off. “Trainer Tim Yakteen wasn't happy with his last work and we feel it's in Arabian Knight's best interest not to rush and allow him more time to develop,” the statement said. “We know he's a superior talent and our plan is to point him toward a summer and fall campaign.”
Kentucky Derby: Baffert stars switched to Yakteen – headed by Arabian Knight
Arabian Knight breezed five furlongs in 59.20s on March 4 and then went six furlongs in 1:13.60 on March 9. Both moves came with Yakteen listed as trainer.
The Uncle Mo colt is currently second favorite behind Breeders’ Cup champion Forte in UK bookmakers’ ante-post lists for the Kentucky Derby.
Arabian Knight will now return to Baffert, who is currently banned from having runners at Churchill Downs – or earning any qualification points for the Kentucky Derby or Oaks – in the wake of the Medina Spirit controversy at the 2021 Derby.
• Visit the Zedan Stable website
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