Although Quality Road developed a new quarter crack, the hoof specialist working on the injury said he believes the colt will run in the Kentucky Derby on May 2.
Ian McKinlay told Fran Jurga’s Hoof Blog that the crack on his right front hoof is minor and Quality Road is in no pain. About a month ago, the Florida Derby winner also developed a quarter crack on his right hind foot, and McKinlay said the cracks are forming because Quality Road’s feet are disproportionately small when compared to the rest of his body.
“He’s a very, very big horse with a small foot,” McKinlay told Jurga.
Quality Road, who recovered from the first crack, has been training well and plans are for the horse to jog on Saturday, gallop on Sunday and breeze on Monday. If he’s sound on Tuesday, then Quality Road will ship to Churchill Downs, said trainer Jimmy Jerkens.
“Right now, he’s absolutely sound,” Jerkens said.
Maiden King 