Photos of the Belmont Stakes recently published clearly show that Big Brown’s right hind shoe was partially pulled off after a collision at the start. Close up photos clearly show the shoe hanging down.

This slide show shows the progression. Check out photo #3 which shows Guadalcanal stepping on Big Brown. I can’t believe the jockey stayed on for that move. Imagine sitting that with your stirrup leathers only a foot long!

Certainly, it would have bothered my horses to have that shoe protruding, so it’s not out of the question that it through the big horse off his stride.

Unfortunately, Big Brown will always be remembered for his feet; his quarter cracks, his special shoes, and now his loose shoe in the Belmont.