2 y/o colt w/o open knees.

Question
I've invested in a 2 y/o colt nicely breed on both sides. At this point in time, he's a young 2. I was informed that he has "B" knees, slightly open, due to his immaturity. They are galloping him on the Farm, and hope to breeze him shortly. The expectation is that they will get him to the races by September 2007. Being a former professional athlete, I cringe at the thought of knee problems. I am told the "B" rating is nothing to worry about. Any thoughts? Your insight would be greatly appreciated. Thank You.

Answer
hi--- well, i would not think of racing him if his knees are not completely closed. remember that open knees will cause not only knee problems, but also bucked shins ankle problems etc.  he will change his way of going if he is not comfortable when he is training. 2 year olds always have problems when started too soon. you can have him broke to the saddle and galloped and have him trained so he knows what is expected of him, then turn him out till he is 3 and then start over again and have a good sound horse to race. this is only my opinion ,  and you can take it with a grain of salt, but rushing him ,just to get him to the races could cause you to have a unsound  horse in the future. there is a lot of money in purses for the 2 year old races and that is why a lot of 2 year olds do not make it past there 2 year old year.   hope this helps you.  thanks for your interest in your horses future. thanks ED HESS