Con Lima getting checked out in Kentucky, will miss Jockey Club Oaks
ELMONT, N.Y. – Con Lima, winner of the Grade 3 Saratoga Oaks after running second in the Belmont Oaks, will miss Saturday’s $700,000 Jockey Club Oaks due to a physical setback, according to Aron Wellman, head of the Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners syndicate, which is majority owner of the filly.
Wellman said Con Lima has been sent to Kentucky to be evaluated by Larry Bramlage at the Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital.
“On the surface, it doesn’t appear to be anything major, major, but we certainly are looking forward to getting Dr. Bramlage’s opinion so we can clarify our options moving forward,” Wellman said. “We’re definitely hopeful to bring her back next season.”
Con Lima, a daughter of Commissioner trained by Todd Pletcher, has won five of eight starts this year, including the Grade 3 Wonder Again, the Grade 3 Herecomesthebride (via disqualification), and the listed Ginger Brew.
The Jockey Club Oaks also lost an expected starter in Cirona, who suffered a fractured pelvis during a breeze Saturday at Saratoga and had to be euthanized, according to part-owner Peter Bradley.
The Oaks field could be down to six: Baby Blythe, Creative Flair, Harajuku, Higher Truth, Madone, and Shantisara.