Uncle Mo’s tiring, third-place finish as the 1-10 favorite in the April 9 Resorts World New York Casino Wood Memorial not only stunned bettors, but his connections as well. On April 14, results of blood work taken on the champion colt confirmed what his connections had surmised all along: He had some internal problems that may have caused his disappointing performance.

According to a release issued by the connections on April 14, the blood work performed on the Indian Charlie colt "concluded that Uncle Mo has a (gastrointestinal) tract infection." Trainer Todd Pletcher said Uncle Mo has begun treatment and that, as of now, he is still be pointed toward the May 7 Kentucky Derby. His status for the race depends on how quickly he can recover from the infection.

"The vets concluded that Uncle Mo is perfectly capable of returning to full training while the treatment continues," Pletcher said. "He will ship to Churchill Downs on April 18 and will have two works before May 7. If I do not feel that Uncle Mo is 100% for the Kentucky Derby, both Mike (Repole) and I agree that he will not run. My main focus is to return Uncle Mo to optimum health in the next 23 days, and I am optimistic that we can accomplish this goal."

"I am relieved that the vets were able to find a reason why we got a disappointing performance from Uncle Mo in the Wood Memorial," said Repole, Uncle Mo’s owner. "I, like all racing fans, hope that Uncle Mo will be 100% on May 7 and in the starting gate at Churchill Downs