Kentucky Derby runs into more obstacles ahead of big race

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — The early favorite for the Kentucky Derby has been scratched hours before the race. Forte is the fifth horse scratched from the $3 million race for 3-year-olds. He had been the early 3-1 favorite. Forte’s co-owner said veterinarians from the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission had concerns about a bruised right front foot. Forte had stumbled during a workout two days ago. His absence reduces the field to 18 horses. Five horses have died at Churchill Downs in recent days, including Derby contender Wild On Ice. Two of the dead horses were trained by Saffie Joseph Jr., who was indefinitely suspended by the track and had his Derby horse, Lord Miles, scratched.