Pure Sensation scratched from Hong Kong Sprint

American shipper Pure Sensation, who's been battling foot troubles for the past several days, was unsurprisingly scratched Sunday morning from the Hong Kong Sprint (G1).

The lone U.S.-based entrant in Sunday's Hong Kong International Races, Pure Sensation exited his Tuesday breeze with a bruise in his left hind foot. As reported by Alan Carasso of Thoroughbred Daily News, he popped an abscess. Just when he appeared to be on the mend from that ill-timed hiccup, Pure Sensation subsequently developed lameness in his left front foot.

The Christophe Clement pupil accordingly missed a couple of days' training. Although Pure Sensation was able to make an appearance on the track Saturday morning, his chances of making the race appeared to be diminishing.

Upon veterinary inspection on HKIR morning, Pure Sensation was not passed fit to race. The Hong Kong Jockey Club announced the findings from Dr. Peter Curl, Executive Manager, Veterinary Regulation:

"Dr. Curl advised that following light work this morning the horse was found to be lame in the left front foot and is not suitable to race."

Clement expressed his appreciation to the HKJC veterinary staff, and his own team led by Rudy Nerbonne, via Twitter:

With Pure Sensation's withdrawal, 13 remain in the Hong Kong Sprint. Locally based Lucky Bubbles (Aus) is currently favorite, with Big Arthur (Jpn) second in the betting market.