California Chrome keeps nasal strip

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The Valley's wonder horse California Chrome is just one win away from winning horse racing's Triple Crown. The final jewel takes place June 7th at the Belmont Stakes.

The New York Racing Association put an end to a Belmont policy and decided it will allow California Chrome to wear his equine nasal strip for the race. The decision allowed everyone involved to breathe easier.

Harris Farms trainer Per Antonsen helped train California Chrome in Coalinga. He showed us how an equine nasal strip goes on. "The main thing is you want to catch the right area, about 1-1/2 inch right above the nostril and then try to place it right down the middle."

The Flair nasal strip helps keep a racehorse's airway open. Resident veterinarian Dr. Jeanne Bowers explained, "If it swells or has any kind of mucous, if that collapses down he just can't get good air."

Dr. Bowers says the strips don't enhance performance. "This is the Secretariat of now and people need it and they're not going to not let him run just for one little piece of equipment."

After winning the Preakness Stakes on Saturday, California Chrome is on the verge of making history with a Triple Crown win. Nasal strips are common. Some said if the New York ban wasn't lifted it would create a public outcry.

Trainer Per Antonsen said, "Definitely, I mean it's not a drug. It's just natural but they turned it around really quick."

A smiling 2-year-old has moved into California Chrome's old stall in the training barn. Harris Farms, where California Chrome first showed off his blazing speed, is now basking in glory. Dr. Bowers said, "You lose your breath, it's just exciting. It's like watching probably your own child in a sport. That's my kid. Look he's getting there, he's gonna win and then when he does, oh my God."

Winning is all California Chrome has done lately. The Belmont Stakes at Belmont Park, New York will be held in just less than three weeks.