Tale of Verve under consideration for Belmont Stakes

Trainer Dallas Stewart was dismayed that Tale of Verve did not get a chance to compete as an also-eligible in the Kentucky Derby despite four horses having scratched from the race, leaving a field of 18 starters and two open gates.

Stewart was well aware of rumors surrounding the well-being of El Kabeir and International Star, both of whom were declared out of the race after the 9 a.m. Eastern deadline the morning before the Derby. Tale of Verve would have carried saddle cloth No. 22 if he had been allowed to start.

“I do hope both horses have a speedy recovery,” said Stewart. “I wish we could’ve gotten to run. I thought our colt would’ve run well, although we’ll have to wait and see down the road if I was right.”

Tale of Verve could wind up in the June 6 Belmont Stakes, said Stewart, assuming the colt runs well in an interim prep, likely a first-level allowance.