Belmont Stakes new goal for Gronkowski

The English-based colt Gronkowski, who was declared out of the Kentucky Derby on Monday with an infection, is expected to return to training next week and point to the Belmont Stakes, according to a press release from the colt’s owner, Phoenix Thoroughbreds.

Gronkowski earned a berth in the Kentucky Derby by winning the Burradon Stakes at Newcastle on March 30, clinching the top spot on the European Road to the Kentucky Derby. But he contracted the infection and had to be treated with antibiotics, preventing him from shipping to Kentucky for the Derby.

Tom Ludt, vice president of equine operations for Phoenix Thoroughbreds, said in the release that Gronkowski is recovering well.

“He’s extremely strong, and we are excited about getting him to the U.S. to compete at the Belmont,” Ludt said.

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The third leg of the Triple Crown, the 1 1/2-mile Belmont Stakes will be run June 9 at Belmont Park.

According to the release, Phoenix Thoroughbreds hopes to make the Breeders’ Cup Classic with Gronkowski as well.

Trained by Jeremy Noseda, Gronkowski has won 4 of 6 starts, with all of his victories coming on synthetic. He has never raced on dirt.

Gronkowski is named for Rob Gronkowski, a tight end for the NFL’s New England Patriots. Gronkowski recently bought a share in the colt.