Etc. . .

The University of Kentucky issued a weather alert to central Kentucky breeders Friday because of a forecast repeat of the heat-and-freeze cycle considered a possible factor in mare reproductive loss syndrome. The temperature is expected to drop from near 80 degrees Friday to overnight frosts Saturday and Sunday; many breeders have opted to keep mares indoors during such weather to avoid possible syndrome-related abortions. . . . Kentucky statutes have been amended to allow Quarter Horse racetrack licensees to conduct intertrack wagering and simulcasting. Turfway Park has said it would be willing to hold a limited number of Quarter Horse races, and other parties have expressed interest in building Quarter Horse tracks. . . . Apprentice rider John McKee, who has been riding at Aqueduct the last four months, will return to the Kentucky circuit this week. McKee plans to ride the last two programs at Turfway Park, Wednesday and Thursday, then ride at the Keeneland and Churchill Downs spring meets. . . . The July 19 Claiming Crown at Canterbury Park will be the focus of an online handicapping tournament, with the top four finishers going to the 2004 National Handicapping Championship.