Coolmore Stud's St Nicholas Abbey has been dealt a setback in his recovery from an injury sustained in July as the 6-year-old horse has "developed mild laminitic changes in the left fore," according to a Twitter post Oct. 23.
The report from Coolmore said the laminitis had developed during the previous 24 hours in the leg opposite the healing one. The son of Montjeu fractured his right foreleg while training at Ballydoyle July 23. He underwent surgery for the injury July 24 and two days later was operated on for colic.
"This is disappointing as he is now weight bearing and walking well on the operated (fractured) leg which has healed amazingly well to date," Coolmore said Oct. 23. "Although laminitis could be a life threatening complication, we are hoping the condition will stabilize. Obviously the next weeks are critical in his recovery, but St Nicholas Abbey remains comfortable with a good appetite and incredible attitude."
Unplaced in only three of his 21 career starts, St Nicholas Abbey has nine wins, two seconds, and seven third-place finishes to his credit while earning $7,863,492. His victories include the Emirates Airline Breeders' Cup Turf, Investec Diamond Jubilee Coronation Cup (three times), Racing Post Trophy, and Dubai Sheema Classic Presented by Longines, all grade/group I events.
