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Brad Cox’s Encino scratched from Kentucky Derby, Epic Ride to replace

Originally posted on Action Network | By Chase Howell | Last updated 4/30/24

The Kentucky Derby has its first scratch of the week.

Brad Cox's Encino has been scratched from the 150th Run for the Roses.

Encino drew the No. 9 gate for the Kentucky Derby and was listed at 20-1 on the morning lines to win the race. Encino won the Lexington Stakes for a spot in the Kentucky Derby and was known as one of the dark horses to pull off the victory.

Trainer Brad Cox has confirmed that Encino will not run in the Kentucky Derby.

Also-eligible Epic Ride will draw in the race. #KyDerby pic.twitter.com/i1UpkoHsJC
— Kentucky Derby (@KentuckyDerby) April 30, 2024

The reason for Encino's scratch hasn't yet been listed.

In Catching Freedom and Just a Touch, Cox has two other horses still in the derby. Catching Freedom is 8-1 to win, while Just a Touch is 10-1.

Epic Ride will now enter the race and take the No. 20 gate. Epic Ride is trained by John Ennis. Epic Ride is coming off a third-place finish at the Grade 1 Blue Grass at Keeneland. He has two wins, two second-place finishes and a third-place finish in five career starts.

For full odds of the Kentucky Derby visit here.

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