Injury forces Algorithms into retirement

By: SPORTS NETWORK

Elmont, NY (Sports Network) - Former Kentucky Derby hopeful Algorithms has been retired after a long injury absence. The 3-year-old colt had been sidelined with a fractured splint bone of the right front leg.

"We were optimistic about his future and return to the track," said trainer Todd Pletcher. "He was one of the best 3-year-olds I have worked with. We had such great expectations of him last winter. It's a disappointment but he should have a great career ahead of him as a stallion."

The fractured splint was discovered the morning of the $400,000 Fountain of Youth Stakes at Gulfstream Park on Feb. 26. Algorithms was scratched from the race, which was won by Union Rags.

Algorithms began the year with a five-length win over Eclipse Award winner Hansen in the Holy Bull Stakes. He was the 8-5 morning-line favorite for the Fountain of Youth and was undefeated in three career starts for $301,500.

"It's very disappointing," said Starlight Racing's managing partner Jack Wolf. "Unfortunately, it's part of the game. He's a wonderful colt and being a son of Bernardini he should move on to a promising stud career. Due to his top and bottom side, and his physical attributes we've received a significant level of interest but no decision has been made yet as to where he will stand."

The colt was sent to Belmont Park on Sept. 11 to begin training for a return to the races. It was discovered the previous injury had been aggravated during training and it was decided to retire him.