Belmont Stakes 2012: I'll Have Another will not lead post parade, winner's circle retirement ceremony planned
ELMONT, N.Y. - Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner I’ll Have Another will have a ceremonial retirement in the Belmont Park winner’s circle prior to Saturday’s 144th running of the Belmont Stakes. The New York Racing Association had originally announced plans to have I’ll Have Another lead the post parade for the Belmont Stakes with jockey Mario Gutierrez aboard, a decision which led to a flurry of criticism throughout the industry.
I’ll Have Another's quest to become the first Triple Crown winner since 1978 came to an end after he was scratched late Friday morning from the Belmont due to a tendon injury.
I’ll Have Another will be led into the paddock shortly after the conclusion of the Grade 1 Manhattan after which he’ll be walked to the winner’s circle where trainer Doug O’Neill will remove his saddle. The ceremony is scheduled to take place at approximately 5:53 p.m.
“We felt this would be a fitting ceremonial retirement for an incredible race horse,” said O’Neill. “There are many fans who have travelled from near and far to see I’ll Have Another today and we wanted to give them a chance to help us send him off to retirement.”