Kentucky Derby favourite Ted Noffey ruled out of Triple Crown

Eclipse Award–winning two-year-old Ted Noffey has been removed from Kentucky Derby markets after being diagnosed with bone bruising, owner Spendthrift Farm announced Thursday.

The setback follows signs of discomfort the colt showed after a recent breeze at Palm Beach Downs.

“Since his last breeze, he hasn’t been moving as well as he normally does,” trainer Todd Pletcher said. “Out of an abundance of caution we had him thoroughly examined, and the diagnosis came back as bruised condyles. Typically, this issue requires about 90 days to resolve, so we’ll look to resume training around the first of May.”

Ted Noffey completed a flawless juvenile season with four wins from four starts, including Grade 1 victories in the Hopeful Stakes, Breeders’ Futurity, and Breeders’ Cup Juvenile. His dominant campaign earned him the title of Champion 2-Year-Old Male.

“Obviously we’re disappointed,” said Spendthrift Farm General Manager Ned Toffey. “But after discussions with Todd, the veterinary team, and owners Eric and Tammy Gustavson, we are all in agreement that giving the colt time off is the right decision. Our priority is his long-term health and career.”

Toffey added that with rest and turnout, the team is “hopeful he’ll be back and ready to compete later this summer and fall.”