Early Kentucky Derby favorite Forte scratched just hours before the race’s start; sixth horse dies

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A sixth horse died at Churchill Downs on Saturday. Chloe’s Dream’s death comes after four horses passed away in just six days. Chloe Dream was a three-year-old gelding that ran on the Derby undercard.

The morning-line favorite to win, Forte, was also scratched from the 149th Run for the Roses, just hours before the Kentucky Derby was scheduled to get underway. Veterinarians examined Forte and determined it was better to exercise caution as it related to the bruise on his right hoof.

The deaths during Derby week have increased the scrutiny to the sport as it also continues to deal with multiple doping suspensions. "This is part of racing, and it’s the cruel part," Mike Repole, co-owner of Forte, said in an interview with FanDuel TV.

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 Rich Strike, with Sonny Leon aboard, crosses the finish line to win the 148th running of the Kentucky Derby horse race at Churchill Downs Saturday, May 7, 2022, in Louisville, Ky. Rich Strike's stunning upset victory in last year's Kentucky Derby as a nearly 81-1 long shot provided the race's second biggest odds winner in four years.  (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson, File)

The ongoing issues within the sport have also caught the attention of some Derby-goers.

"It’s concerning, and I hope they’re quickly trying the best they can to correct whatever’s going on," said Michael Freeze, who along with his friend dressed up as jockeys. "They need to do whatever is best for the horses, and the sport in general."

KENTUCKY DERBY FAVORITE SCRATCHED FROM RACE DUE TO BRUISED RIGHT FOOT 

Chloe’s Dream got hurt in the second race Saturday. The horse was taken off in an