First Mission is out of the 2023 Preakness Stakes after being scratched on Friday morning. Veterinarians determined the horse’s left hind ankle was not fit to run.
The Brad H. Cox trained thoroughbred was widely considered to contend for the second leg of the Triple Crown with morning line odds set at 5-2.
“We are obviously very disappointed, but the welfare of the horse is our utmost concern, and we are going to take the necessary steps to determine the best course of action to get him back on the track,” Godolphin USA bloodstock director Michael Banahan said, per the Associated Press. “It’s unfortunate, but we know he’s a very talented horse and I’m sure we’ll have big days down the road with him.”
Kentucky Derby winner Mage remains the favorite (8-5) for Saturday’s race, which is now down to just seven horses — the smallest field since 1986.
