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Kentucky Derby: Seventh horse dies at Churchill Downs in lead-up to main event

A number of horses have died at Churchill Downs ahead of the 2023 Kentucky Derby. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
A number of horses have died at Churchill Downs ahead of the 2023 Kentucky Derby. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Two more horses have died at Churchill Downs in the lead-up to the Kentucky Derby. Chloe's Dream, a 3-year-old gelding, and Freezing Point, a 3-year-old colt, were euthanized after sustaining injuries during undercard races, according to the Associated Press.

A total of seven horses have died at Churchill Downs in the days leading up to the 2023 Kentucky Derby. At least two other horses, Wild on Ice and Take Charge Briana, were euthanized while competing or training in the week leading up to the Derby.

Two horses trained by Saffie Joseph Jr. died suddenly as the Derby approached. Churchill Downs suspended Joseph Jr. on Saturday. Lord Miles, who was also trained by Joseph Jr., was scratched from the Kentucky Derby as a result of the suspension.

Four other horses were scratched from the Derby, including the favorite to win the event, Forte. Continuar, Practical Move and Skinner were the other three horses scratched before the event.

Forte's trainer, Todd Pletcher, still has two horses in the Derby, including Tapit Trice and Kingsbarns.