Mo Donegal, Belmont Stakes Winner, to Miss Most of 2022 Due to Bone Bruising
Injury Derails Racing Schedule
Unfortunately, the racing community will have to bid farewell to one talented Triple Crown race winner for the remainder of 2022. Mo Donegal, who emerged victorious in the prestigious Belmont Stakes, has recently suffered from a bone bruising injury that will put him out of training for an extended period. This setback means that the highly anticipated Grade 1 Travers Stakes, scheduled for August 27, is now off the table for Mo Donegal. Trainer Todd Pletcher had previously expressed his intention to enter the colt in this race.
However, the consequences of this injury extend beyond this single race. Pletcher has disclosed that Mo Donegal will be unable to participate in the prestigious Breeders’ Cup, held at Keeneland on November 4-5. This news has undoubtedly disappointed the horse’s connections, who now face the daunting task of sidelining their prodigious contender for the remainder of the year. Pletcher elaborated on the injury, describing it as a common bone bruising condition that will require a minimum of 60 days to heal.
A Troubling Post-Belmont Stakes Examination
Following Mo Donegal’s remarkable three-length triumph at the Belmont Stakes, it became apparent that he was not his usual self. Concerned about the colt’s uncharacteristic behavior, his team decided to seek medical advice and subjected him to a thorough examination. Unfortunately, the results confirmed their fears – Mo Donegal had indeed sustained bone bruising.
Since his triumph at Belmont Park, Mo Donegal has not participated in any races or training sessions. This unexpected hiatus represents a considerable departure from his typical active routine. The colt had been enjoying a successful 2022 campaign, which began with a notable victory in the Grade 2 Wood Memorial on April 9. This triumph marked his second Triple Crown trail victory, having also won the Grade 2 Remsen Stakes in December 2021. Although Mo Donegal finished third in the Grade 3 Holy Bull at Gulfstream Park, he has otherwise maintained an impressive and consistent record.
A Promising Career Highlighted by Tenacity and Consistency
Mo Donegal, a colt sired by Uncle Mo, was purchased for $250,000 at the 2020 Keeneland September Yearling Sale. Throughout his racing career, he has demonstrated exceptional talent, capturing the attention of both racing enthusiasts and industry experts alike. In his seven races to date, Mo Donegal has recorded four wins and two second-place finishes, accumulating a total of $1,511,800 in prize money. Remarkably, his only disappointment was a fifth-place finish in the Kentucky Derby, during which he faced significant challenges due to an unfavorable rail position.
The Thrilling Belmont Stakes Victory
Mo Donegal’s triumph at the Belmont Stakes will forever be etched in the annals of racing history. As the 2.60/1 favorite, he showcased his tactical prowess and closing speed, delivering an unforgettable performance to claim victory. Initially positioned in sixth place among the eight contenders, Mo Donegal astounded spectators as he navigated his way to the front, leaving his rivals behind. This remarkable display of skill and determination perfectly exemplifies the colt’s exceptional racing abilities.
Welcoming Future Opportunities
As Mo Donegal embarks on a well-deserved period of rest and recovery, his connections are eagerly looking ahead to his return to the track. Despite the disappointment of missing out on significant races, such as the Travers Stakes and the Breeders’ Cup, there is a shared determination to ensure the colt’s complete recuperation. Racing enthusiasts can be assured that Mo Donegal’s progress will be closely monitored and updates will be provided by his owners, Jerry Crawford (CEO of Donegal Racing) and co-owner Mike Repole.
FAQs
1. Will Mo Donegal return to racing in 2023?
As of now, it is uncertain when exactly Mo Donegal will make his racing comeback. The priority for his connections is to allow him ample time to recover and heal from his bone bruising injury. Once he has fully recuperated, his training regimen will gradually commence, preparing him for the races ahead. The timing of his return will primarily depend on his progress and the advice of his veterinary team.
2. How common are bone bruising injuries in racehorses?
Bone bruising injuries are relatively common in the world of horse racing. These injuries occur when there is trauma or stress applied to the bone, leading to bruising or microfractures. While they can be a setback for a horse’s training and competition schedule, with appropriate care and rehabilitation, most horses recover fully and are able to resume racing.
3. Are there any long-term implications for Mo Donegal’s racing career?
The long-term implications for Mo Donegal’s racing career will depend on the extent of his recovery and how well he responds to treatment. With proper care and management, many racehorses have successfully returned to competitive racing after similar injuries. The focus now is on providing Mo Donegal with the best possible care and ensuring his rehabilitation progresses smoothly.
4. Will Mo Donegal’s absence impact the Triple Crown series?
While Mo Donegal’s absence will certainly be noted in the racing community, it does not have a direct impact on the Triple Crown series itself. Each race within the Triple Crown – the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes – stands as an independent event. However, race enthusiasts will undoubtedly miss the excitement of seeing a Triple Crown race winner competing in subsequent races.
5. How will Mo Donegal’s injury affect his ranking in the National Thoroughbred Racing Association’s poll?
Considering Mo Donegal’s absence from upcoming races, it is likely that his ranking in the National Thoroughbred Racing Association’s poll will experience a temporary decline. The poll reflects the current performance and achievements of racehorses, and without recent appearances, Mo Donegal’s position may be influenced. As he returns to racing and showcases his talent once again, it is foreseeable that he will regain his standing among the elite horses in the poll.
