Surgery Delayed for Derby Runner-Up Proud Citizen

Surgery on a fractured shin in Proud Citizen's left front leg has been delayed. Dr. Stephen Selway postponed the operation, which was scheduled for July 1, because of several tiny fractures located near the main injury, which is approximately three inches long. Selway also was concerned because the colt had become lame again on June 30.

"With this type of fracture, you don't want to be too brash about doing anything because you might pay for it later on," Selway said.
The surgeon, who is based at Belmont Park, was especially concerned about the colt's recovery. Because the injury is in the upper third of the cannon bone, the leg cannot be stabilized well with a cast, Selway explained. Giving the colt time will allow the fractures to heal some and make the leg stronger.

Selway said he would probably operate on Proud Citizen on July 15. The colt could race again, but it will be at least six months before he can return to training.

A son of Gone West, Proud Citizen captured the Coolmore Lexington Stakes (gr. II) at Keeneland in April, then finished second in the Kentucky Derby (gr. I) and third in the Preakness (gr. I). The colt was injured while finishing fifth in the June 8 Belmont Stakes (gr. I). Owned by Robert Baker, David Cornstein, and William Mack, Proud Citizen is trained by D. Wayne Lukas.