Leonnatus Anteas Out of Sunday's Queen's Plate

(from Woodbine release)
Leonnatus Anteas, Canada's champion 2-year-old colt in last year and fourth choice in the wagering for Sunday's 148th running of the Queen's Plate at Woodbine, has been scratched.

"He has an infection in his pastern," said trainer Kevin Attard, Saturday morning. "We've treated it and he has improved but not to where he can run. He's at Guelph (the University of Guelph Equine Center) so he can get the best care possible and they can stay on top of it."

The pastern is the area in the leg right above the hoof.

The chestnut son of Stormy Atlantic   has had only one start this year, a closing second-place finish in a seven furlong contest against older horses. He was to be ridden by Jono Jones.

"Obviously it is a big blow and horrendous timing, but we've made a decision to be cautious and prudent here,” Attard said. “He's a good horse and the key is getting him better."

Attard and owners Knob Hill Stable and the Estate of Steve Stavro will still be represented in the $1 million Plate by 15-1 outsider Alezzandro.

Leonnatus Anteas was 6-1 in the morning line behind 9-5 favorite Jiggs Coz.

A field of eight will now go to post for Canada's most famous horse race at 4:37 p.m. ET.