Setback Knocks Balletto Out of Kentucky Oaks

Godolphin's Balletto, runner-up to champion Sweet Catomine in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies (gr. I) and winner of the Frizette (gr. I) at Belmont Park, has suffered a training "setback" that has knocked her out of consideration for the $500,000-added Kentucky Oaks (gr. I).

Godolphin racing manager Simon Crisford notified Churchill Downs of Balletto's status via telephone from Dubai on Thursday. Crisford did not specifically identify the nature of Balletto's problem, but he said that Godolphin anticipates a return to competition by the filly later in the year.

"She's had a setback," said Crisford. "It's not a serious setback, but we haven't got enough time to get her ready for that race, so she won't be entered (nominated) for the Kentucky Oaks. She'll be fine. She'll be racing in America in the second half of the year and we hope to run in some of the big races in the fall."

Wagering was suspended on the daughter of 1996 Preakness (gr. I) winner Timber Country as a betting interest in the Kentucky Oaks Future Wager. She was listed at 10-1 prior to the opening of the pool Thursday.

Balletto, who was bred in the United Arab Emirates, has a career record of 3-2-0 in five races with earnings of $614,000.