Lady Eli develops laminitis, future uncertain

By: SPORTS NETWORK

Elmont, NY (SportsNetwork.com) - Leading 3-year-old filly Lady Eli has come down with laminitis of her front feet leaving her future on the track unclear.

Trainer Chad Brown spoke to the Daily Racing Form saying "that Lady Eli stepped on a nail walking back from the test barn to her own barn at Belmont Park following her victory in the Grade 1, $1 million Belmont Oaks on July 4, injuring her left front foot."

"Despite our efforts, including a talented team of veterinarians, Lady Eli's injury has led to her developing laminitis," Brown said. "Thankfully, we have assembled the best possible team of veterinarians and farriers to stabilize her and assist her through these difficult times. I ask that all of her fans keep this magnificent racehorse in their prayers and hopefully she will be back on the racetrack flashing her brilliance again."

Laminitis is an extremely serious condition for thoroughbreds and proved fatal to 2006 Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro after his catastrophic injury in the Preakness Stakes.

Brown told Daily Racing Form that Lady Eli is currently stabled at Belmont Park and is in "stable but guarded condition." The filly has "been fitted with special shoes for support on both front feet."

Owned by Sheep Pond Partners, Lady Eli is undefeated in six career starts. The filly was perfect in three starts as a 2-year-old, including the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf.

Lady Eli has won all three starts in 2015 and has lifetime earnings of $1,449,800.