by Claire Novak and Steve Haskin

Owner Phyllis Wyeth has decided to retire 2012 Belmont Stakes (gr. I) winner Union Rags, her adviser Russell Jones said July 20.

"I spoke to Phyllis about two hours ago," Jones said. "She discussed it with Jamie (her husband) and it was all about the risk factor. This was a time to make the tough decision. The horse is very much in the limelight as far as breeders go at this moment, and they felt like it would be a challenge and a risk to be back in this position next year."

The 3-year-old son of Dixie Union was sidelined for the rest of the year after a small lesion in the middle of the suspensory ligament in his left front leg. The injury was detected last week as he was training for a start in the July 29 Haskell Invitational (gr.I). Jones said the owner was searching for a stud deal