IEAH files counterclaim over I Want Revenge

IEAH Stables, which purchased a 50 percent interest in Kentucky Derby favorite I Want Revenge earlier this year, has filed a counterclaim against the colt's original owner and breeder, David Lanzman, contending that Lanzman did not keep IEAH informed about an injury that may have led to the decision to scratch the colt the morning of the Derby, according to a court document.

The document was filed in answer to a lawsuit Lanzman filed against IEAH in early June. In the filing, IEAH denies that it was required to notify Lanzman about its efforts to sell shares in I Want Revenge from its own holdings, and the company also denies breaching a contract with Lanzman related to requirements to deposit money into escrow accounts based on the sales.

IEAH purchased the 50 percent share in I Want Revenge just prior to the colt winning the April 4 Wood Memorial, a major prep race for the Kentucky Derby. According to Lanzman's lawsuit, IEAH paid $3.175 million for the half-share, and, as part of the deal, Lanzman also received a 25 percent share of a lease of the IEAH-owned filly Stardom Bound through this year's Breeders' Cup in November.

I Want Revenge was scratched on the morning of the Kentucky Derby because of an injury to his right front fetlock. The counterclaim of the lawsuit contends that Lanzman was aware that I Want Revenge had suffered an injury to the same area on April 10, but had withheld the information from IEAH. The suit claims that I Want Revenge could have been treated for the injury then if the horse had not resumed training so quickly after the injury was diagnosed.

I Want Revenge has not raced since the Wood Memorial, and it is unclear if the horse will resume training.