Big Brown goes after Triple Crown

ELMONT, N.Y., June 6 (UPI) -- Big Brown will attempt to become the 12th winner of thoroughbred racing's Triple Crown Saturday in the running of the Belmont Stakes.

Mostly sunny skies are forecast with the temperature expected to reach 90 degrees at Belmont Park, where nine challengers will take on Big Brown in the 1 1/2-mile test.

Big Brown recorded one-sided triumphs at the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes and will attempt to become the first horse in 30 years to capture the Triple Crown.

This bid for history has been enlivened by the fact Big Brown developed a crack in his left, front hoof after the Preakness win.

An acrylic patch has been applied and Big Brown trainer Rick Dutrow Jr. has insisted his horse will be 100 percent for the race.

There are questions, however, about Big Brown's chief challenger -- Casino Drive.

Reports indicated Casino Drive, at 7-2 the second choice in the race, is suffering from a bruised left hind hoof.