DRF
Elevated white blood cell count keeps Nyquist in barn
By Nicole Russo
Nyquist is expected to resume training for the Kentucky Derby later this week.
Kentucky Derby favorite Nyquist\'s return to training at Keeneland has been delayed by an elevated white blood cell count.
Assistant trainer Jack Sisterson said that Nyquist has displayed no outward symptoms of illness, such as an elevated temperature or leaving feed. However, routine blood work showed the elevated cell count. Nyquist shipped to Keeneland Sunday after winning the Florida Derby the previous day. The Kentucky Derby is on May 7.
\"He\'s doing great, no temperature,\" Sisterson said. \"We just took his blood, and his white count was slightly elevated. With the five weeks, why rush him back? ... Why take the risk of him actually getting sick?\"
An elevated white cell count in a horse can indicate an immune response or stress. It\'s not uncommon for a horse to show a stress response shortly after shipping.
Sisterson said that Nyquist\'s energy level is good, adding that he was \"dragging us around\" walking the shedrow. Pending the weather and his condition, the colt will return to training Friday or Saturday.
\"He hasn\'t missed a beat eating-wise, and we\'re all happy with him,\" Sisterson said. \"It\'s just, why take the risk with him? It\'s not like we have two weeks.\"
