GI Kentucky Derby hero Justify (Scat Daddy) had another good morning at Churchill Downs Friday–he galloped 1 1/2 miles like he had on Thursday. The 'TDN Rising Star' and heavy favorite for next Saturday's GI Preakness S. had been the focus of much attention and speculation after exiting his Derby romp with an apparent bruised heel.
“One of the most remarkable things about him is his capacity for recovery respiratory-wise,” said Dr. Kevin Dunlavy, the veterinarian overseeing Justify's care in Kentucky. “He'll go out and train, it could be a strong gallop, and within minutes he's completely caught his breath. His recovery seems maybe superior to the average horse.”
Bob Baffert's assistant trainer Jimmy Barnes was pleased with what he saw Friday as well.
“That's his normal self out there: high energy level, feeling very good, had a good bounce in his step, going over the track perfect,” he said. “Couldn't fault anything he's doing right now. Everything looks great.”
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