Todd Pletcher ‘Seeking Some More Clarity’ on Forte’s Status | 2023 Preakness Stakes News

Trainer Todd Pletcher had no answers Tuesday morning as to whether 2-year-old champion Forte will be allowed to run in the May 20 Preakness Stakes (G1) at Pimlico Race Course.

The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission late Monday afternoon issued an advisory that Forte, who was scratched on Kentucky Derby morning because of a foot bruise sustained earlier in the week, is on the 14-day ‘veterinarian’s list’ and ineligible to run during that time, including the Preakness.

“I read the statement put out (Monday) afternoon; that’s really all I know at this point,” Pletcher said. “I was surprised, maybe not floored, but surprised. We’re seeking some more clarity. Until we get it, we really don’t know what our status is. According to that, we would not be eligible to run in the Preakness. That’s all I know at this point.”

Pletcher sounded like he wants to be ready should something develop to where Forte could run in the Preakness.

“We weren’t able to do much today with the weather conditions and sloppy going,” Pletcher said of Forte’s easy gallop once around the track. “We’ll continue to put out some normal gallops as best we can.”