Scratched
Also called: scratch
A horse is 'scratched' when it is withdrawn from a race after entries are taken but before the race is run.
Scratches happen for soundness, weather, an off track, or a trainer's tactical choice; some are at the trainer's discretion, others are ordered by the track veterinarian. Bets on a scratched horse are refunded, and an also-eligible may draw in to fill the spot.
Examples
- arrow_rightHe scratched her off the turf when overnight rain left the course soft.
- arrow_rightTwo scratches Friday morning left only six horses in the field.