Overbrook Farm's Clock Stopper, who would have drawn into the Breeders' Cup Sprint (gr. I) with the defection of any of the 14 horses on the race's preference list, has suffered what is described as a "minor" ankle injury that has knocked the 3-year-old gelding out of consideration for the Oct. 25 race.Trainer Dallas Stewart said Clock Stopper wrenched his left front ankle, an injury that was discovered late Saturday afternoon. Although the injury is not regarded as serious, he said the 3-year-old gelding by Gilded Time -- Great Fun (by Farma Way) would not race again in 2003."He's come up with a very minor problem, sort of a wrenched ankle," said Stewart. "We looked at it and examined it, and that's our conclusion. We just need to pass on the race."Stewart said Clock Stopper could not be expected to go into a demanding test like the Breeders' Cup World Thoroughbred Championships at anything less than his best."You've just got to be realistic about it," said Stewart. "It's going to be the toughest race of his life and you have to be 110%. I don't think he can be with somewhat of a wrenched ankle, so we'll just give him time off and bring him back next year."Clock Stopper has a record of 4-3-0 in nine races and career earnings of $189,361.
The defection of Clock Stopper marks the first time since 1988 that Overbrook Farm has not been represented as owner in the Breeders' Cup.
