Morguelan to have surgery

LOUISVILLE, Ky. - Kentucky trainer Steve Morguelan is scheduled to undergo surgery May 6 after being diagnosed with a form of pancreatic cancer known as a cystic neoplasm.

Morguelan, whose 30 years of training experience have made him a widely respected figure on the backstretch of Churchill Downs and other racetracks, said Monday that his physician, Dr. David Richardson, told him the surgery is aimed at eradicating the cancer but that follow-up treatment is a strong likelihood.

"Doc has given me a good prognosis, but we'll know more after the surgery," said Morguelan, 53.

Because of his illness, Morguelan has dispersed his 14-horse stable among longtime colleagues Bob Holthus and Lynn Whiting. Morguelan said he hoped to visit friends on the backstretch this week but that he typically avoids the crowds at Churchill on Derby weekend when he does not have a horse in action.

Morguelan's most accomplished horses have included Mattering, Satin Ribera, Lithan, Super Hit, Snake Eyes, Tarzans Blade, and Leelanau.