The Chosen Vron, California's reigning horse of the year and a fan favorite, has been sidelined for several months due to a minor ankle issue discovered shortly after he was scratched from the Breeders' Cup Sprint last month. Trainer J. Eric Kruljac remains optimistic about the 6-year-old gelding's recovery and his return to the races next year.

Overcoming Adversity: The Chosen Vron's Resilient Journey

A Stellar Career Interrupted

The Chosen Vron, a son of Vronsky, has been a dominant force in the California racing scene, winning 19 of his 25 starts, including impressive win streaks of eight races and six races. Between September 2022 and September 2023, he had won 14 of his last 16 races, cementing his status as a fan favorite and a force to be reckoned with. However, his path to continued success hit a minor roadblock when a slight issue was detected in his ankle just 10 days before the Breeders' Cup Sprint, forcing his connections to scratch him from the prestigious event.

Uncovering the Issue and the Road to Recovery

According to trainer J. Eric Kruljac, the veterinarians detected a slight gimp in The Chosen Vron's gait, leading to his placement on the vet's list. This meant the horse had to undergo a rigorous series of tests and remain on the list for 14 days before being cleared to race again. Further examination at Santa Anita revealed a very minor problem, one that Kruljac believes the horse had been running with for some time, including in his recent races such as the Pat O'Brien (G2) and the Bing Crosby.

A Necessary Respite and Potential International Opportunities

Kruljac has decided to give The Chosen Vron a four-month break to allow the issue to heal naturally, without the need for surgery. The horse is currently turned out at Trifecta Farm in Bonsall, where his partners can visit him and ensure he gets the rest he deserves. Kruljac has also hinted at the possibility of running the horse in international events, such as in Saudi Arabia or Dubai, once he has fully recovered, though he acknowledges that the initial suggestion was made in frustration rather than a well-thought-out plan.

Defending the Bing Crosby Title and a Bright Future

As The Chosen Vron enjoys his much-needed respite, Kruljac is hopeful that the horse will return to the races next year, ready to defend his title in the prestigious Bing Crosby (G1) at Del Mar. The trainer remains confident that with the proper time off and care, The Chosen Vron will come back as the same dominant horse that has captivated fans and earned the respect of the racing community.