Controversy Surrounding White Abarrio's Late Scratch at the 2023 Breeders' Cup
The 2023 GI Breeders' Cup Classic winner, White Abarrio, was unexpectedly scratched from the GI Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile at Del Mar on the advice of the on-track veterinarian. This decision has sparked controversy among the horse's owners, C2 Racing Stable, Gary Barber, and La Milagrosa Stable, who have expressed their disagreement with the call. C2 Racing Stable has taken to social media to announce their intention to seek an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the late scratch of White Abarrio. The owners maintain that the horse was in good health and fit to race, as confirmed by pre-race examinations and the jockey's assessment of his warm-up.
The owners of White Abarrio are troubled by the Breeders' Cup's decision to scratch the horse just before the race, despite no apparent evidence of his unfitness to compete. They emphasize their commitment to the well-being of their horses and assert that they would support a scratch if there were legitimate concerns about the horse's condition. However, in this case, they believe the decision was unjustified and made without clear reasons. As a result, C2 Racing Stable and Gary Barber have sought legal counsel and are calling for a thorough investigation into the matter. They are urging the Breeders' Cup, the California Horse Racing Board, and the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club to disclose all relevant documents related to the scratch of White Abarrio.
In light of the ongoing investigation and the owners' concerns about the handling of the situation, they have chosen not to provide further comments or answer questions at this time. The owners are determined to uncover the truth behind the late scratch of White Abarrio and ensure transparency in the process. The controversy surrounding this incident has raised questions about the decision-making process and the protocols followed in such situations. The owners are committed to upholding the integrity of the sport and protecting the welfare of their equine athletes.