Arthur Blue Chip, who was installed the 7/2 second choice to win Saturday's $683,000 Metro Pace at Mohawk, has been scratched due to sickness.
The word came from trainer Dr. Ian Moore on Friday morning.
“He had a terrific week up until about yesterday,” Moore said. “I took him out to train and he coughed once before he went a mile and a few times afterwards. I scoped him and he showed signs of sickness, but is five-times worse this morning.”
The son of Shadow Play has banked $194,495 this season along with a 5-0-1 record from seven starts.
“This would be our fifth time being in the Metro and I think our best chance to win, so it’s disappointing not to be in it,” Moore said. “We have to do what’s best for the horse. It’s not a serious issue, but could develop into one if we race him. As a veterinarian I wouldn’t recommend to any client to race, so I’m certainly not going to race my own.”
The $135,000 yearling purchase is owned by Shadow One Stable. Randy Waples was listed to drive from post four.
First also eligible Some Major Beach, the half-brother to 2007 Metro winner Somebeachsomewhere, has drawn into the Metro Pace Final and will be driven by Doug McNair for trainer Tony Alagna.
(with files from WEG)