Conagher skips Maxfield, will run in Indiana or Iowa derbies due to Lasix rules
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Conagher isn’t running in the seven-furlong Maxfield on Sunday at Churchill Downs primarily because of rules pertaining to Lasix, according to trainer Mike Tomlinson.
“I wanted to postpone him running without Lasix one more time,” said Tomlinson.
With that, Conagher either will run in the $250,000 Iowa Derby or $300,000 Indiana Derby, both to be run next Saturday at 1 1/16 miles. State rules for both of those races allow for Lasix treatment, whereas the bleeder medication is banned for all stakes in Kentucky.
“It’s not that he’s a bleeder, but all good horses eventually bleed because they try so hard,” said Tomlinson.
Conagher has come to prominence by earning 97 and 104 Beyer Speed Figures in winning his last two starts, both at sprint distances. The Jimmy Creed colt breezed last weekend at Churchill for the first time since a June 3 allowance romp when going five furlongs in 1:00.20. He is scheduled to breeze again Sunday.
“He’s a kind horse and I think he’ll rate,” said Tomlinson. “If he can, that’ll open a lot of doors for us.”