Kentucky Derby hopeful, Great Hunter, is caught in a legal skirmish that could threaten the colt's chance of a victory in the upcoming Running of the Roses.  Great Hunter, a colt owned by J. Paul Reddam, is the subject of a lien by a Kentucky Bank.

Last June, Reddam purchased Great Hunter for $550,000.  It is now claimed that the colt was included as collateral by the colt's former owners Ilona Whetstone.   Whetstone and her husband have since defaulted on the loans.  On March 2, 2007, Fifth Third bank took legal possession of 29 horses including Dis Miss and a 2007 filly by Candy Ride. 

Attorneys for Reddam have filed a lawsuit to seek protection for Great Hunter. In the lawsuit, it is claimed that Fifth Third Bank has interested suitors to purchase Great Hunter and that the bank will sell its claim unless a settlement is reached with Reddam.  If the court rules again Reddam, then Great Hunter could miss his Derby start and may be prevented from running in future events.

Great Hunter has earned $750,000 during his racing career which includes wins at the Robert B. Lewis and in the Breeder's Futurity.  The 2004 colt is trained by Doug O'Neill and is scheduled to make his Derby run under the guidance of jockey, Corey Nakatani. 

Bibliography
Contenders
http://www.kentuckyderby.com/2007/derby_contenders/great_hunter


Reddam Seeks Court Protection for Great Hunter
http://news.bloodhorse.com/viewstory.asp?id=38168
Bloodhorse.com, March 27, 2007.