Veterinarians at New Bolton Center in Kennett Square, Pa. are cautiously optimistic that All Smiles, who broke down near the finish line of the June 20 Obeah Stakes (gr. III) at Delaware Park, will make a full recovery, the mare’s owner said June 26.

A 5-year-old daughter of Awesome Again, All Smiles broke both sesamoids in her right front leg about 200 yards from the wire of the 1 1/8-mile Obeah. Cynthia McGinnes, who bred and owns All Smiles with her husband, Charles, said the injury was caused when the dark bay or brown mare stepped in a starting gate tire track on the muddy surface. McGinnes credits many people, but especially jockey Justin Shepherd, for saving her life.

“Justin saved her life,” said McGinnes. “He was aware of what happened right away and not only pulled her up, but held her leg up until the van got there; just like Chris Antley did (with Charismatic). If he hadn’t done that, she wouldn’t be alive.

“But everyone was so helpful, including the two vets who prepared her at Delaware Park. It was less than an hour and half after the injury that she got to New Bolton. We’re very grateful