Both colts are part-owned by WinStar Farm but the decision to withdraw Florida Derby winner Audible was made by his trainer Todd Pletcher.
Justify is in line to win the coveted US Triple Crown after winning the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes and his task will be made considerably easier with Audible out of the Belmont.Pletcher, Walden on Their Belmont Stakes Contenders
WinStar president and CEO Elliot Walden said the decision was not about Audible ducking Justify, trained by Bob Baffert. Walden said Pletcher was not pleased with the way Audible colt had been training after his third in the Kentucky Derby.
“Todd called me and said he didn’t want to work him and give him a little more time.“It was really up to Todd. He felt like he wasn’t back to where he was before the Derby.”
WinStar will still oppose Justify in the Belmont with Noble Indy, winer of the the G2 Louisiana Derby before finishing 17th in the Kentucky Derby.“I don’t think anybody is going to beat Justify in the Belmont if Justify runs his race,” Walden said.
“He’s doing really well and came out of the Preakness in good shape.Walden said Pletcher may aim Audible at the big summer races that include the G2 Jim Dandy, G1 Travers Stakes and G1 Haskell Invitational.
