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Ewing's Derby Dreams Sidelined After Ozark Upset
27 Feb
Summary
- Promising colt Ewing suffered his first career loss in the Ozark Stakes.
- Trainer Mark Casse cited potential 'Derby hype' as a factor in the loss.
- Next race plans for Ewing are currently pending further evaluation.
Ewing, a Grade 2 winner, recently suffered his first career loss, finishing sixth in the $150,000 Ozark Stakes on February 16. This marked his return after a break since the Saratoga Special Stakes (G2) on August 2.
Trainer Mark Casse acknowledged that the "hype" surrounding potential Kentucky Derby aspirations may have been premature for Ewing. The colt, who previously broke his maiden by 12 lengths, experienced an awkward start in the Ozark, preventing him from being a factor.
Following the Saratoga Special, Ewing was also scratched from the Breeders' Futurity Stakes (G1) on October 4 due to a minor injury. His future racing plans are now undetermined as he recuperates and awaits direction from his connections.
Ewing, a Triple Crown nominee, is from the first crop of Knicks Go and races for D. J. Stable, West Point Thoroughbreds, and Kenneth Freirich. The Ozark Stakes loss also broke an impressive streak for Casse at Oaklawn, where he had previously won 8 out of 8 races this season.
