Classic Empire still targeting Blue Grass Stakes

The Blue Grass Stakes at Keeneland on April 8 remains the intended target for Classic Empire, who is scheduled to go back to the track on Tuesday after having a potential workout aborted last Friday.

Classic Empire refused to work that morning, and minutes later at the barn was showing discomfort in his back, trainer Mark Casse said. An equine therapist was brought in to work on Classic Empire on Saturday afternoon, and by Sunday morning Classic Empire was frolicking in a round pen like the happiest horse in the world.

Classic Empire has not raced, nor worked, since finishing third in the Holy Bull last month at Gulfstream. Days after that race, an abscess popped out the heel of his right front hoof, which forced him out of the Fountain of Youth. Casse said that issue has cleared up.