Casino Drive Out of Belmont

The Japanese import Casino Drive, second choice at 7-2 on the morning line, was declared out of the Belmont Stakes early Saturday morning. The son of 2003 Horse of the Year Mineshaft developed a possible stone bruise on his left hind foot Friday morning and his connections decided against taking him to the track. They had a vet look at it, treated it and hoped that an easy day and night would alleviate the problem. No such luck. The only positive is that he will remain unbeaten and most likely move on to race another day. It also means his dam's streak of producing Belmont winners ends at two consecutive. Better Than Honour is the mother of 2007 Belmont winner Rags to Riches and 2006 champ Jazil.