California Chrome Reportedly Gets OK To Use Nasal Strip In Triple Crown Bid
BALTIMORE (CBS SF) – The owners of California Chrome were considering passing on a shot at history if the horse was blocked from using nasals trips during the Belmont Stakes; fortunately for them, they don't have to weigh that decision.
The three-year-old colt has worn a strip during the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, and every race during this current six race winning spree, but could have been held from the June 7 Belmont Stakes in New York if not allowed to wear the strips across his nose that helps improve breathing.
ESPN reports that New York Racing Association steward Steve Lewandowski told ESPN on Monday that California Chrome would be allowed to wear the strip during the 1½-mile race on June 7.
"New York is the only racing association, the only state, that does not allow the nasal strip," Bay Area horse racing commenter Sam Spear said.
Chrome is the first California-bred horse to win the Preakness since Snow Chief in 1986. It now has a chance to become horse racing's 12th Triple Crown winner.