Trainer Nick Zito confirmed May 5 that Ice Box , who finished second in the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I), will not be going on to Baltimore to compete in the May 15 Preakness Stakes (gr. I) at Pimlico.
“After talking to Mr. (Bob) LaPenta we concurred that Ice Box’s race was tremendous, but we also knew it was a tough race,” said Zito in a statement. The son of Pulpit, who was bred in Kentucky by Denlea Park, has won three of eight starts, including the March 20 Florida Derby (gr. I), and earned $906,534.
“We feel that we are better-suited to wait and pass the Preakness and possibly go on to the (June 5) Belmont Stakes (gr. I) and, hopefully, things work out,” said Zito. "Also, we have more evaluation to do with Jackson Bend and will make a decision on his status for the Preakness on Monday (May 10).”
Jackson Bend, who is owned by LaPenta and Fred Brei, finished 12th in the Derby. Both Ice Box and Jackson Bend are currently training at Churchill Downs.