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California Chrome might have been pulled from running the Belmont Stakes if he was not permitted to wear the nasal strip he's worn in his last six victories in a row. California Chrome was a -130 favorite to win the race Sunday morning and has the chance to win the Triple Crown, something that hasn’t been done since Affirmed in 1978.
On Monday, it was announced that California Chrome would be allowed to wear the strips.
The horse's co-owner Perry Martin suggested the strips as a means of enhancing breathing.
"The horse has been on a six (race) winning streak with a nasal strip. I don't know why they would ban you from wearing one. But we'll have to cross that bridge when we get there I guess."
Two years ago, I'll Have Another was denied the use of nasal strips at the Belmont Stakes after wearing them in both his Kentucky Derby and Preakness wins. The Daily Racing Form reported that New York Racing Association stewards policy was to not permit nasal strips for thoroughbreds. Ultimately, I’ll Have Another had to be pulled from the Belmont Stakes due to a leg injury.
The New York State Gaming Commission said in a statement, "If a request to use nasal strips is made, the decision on whether to permit them or not will be fully evaluated and determined by the Stewards."
That request has been granted.
California Chrome -130
Social Inclusion 8/1
Commanding Curve 8/1
Tonalist 9/1
Danza 9/1
Candy Boy 10/1
Commissioner 10/1
Samraat 10/1
Ride On Curlin 10/1
Intense Holiday 10/1
Wicked Strong 12/1
- Carrie Stroup, Gambling911.com Senior Reporter
