The dispute over payment of the $1-million bonus earned by War Emblem for winning both the Illinois Derby (G2) and Kentucky Derby (G1) could be resolved as soon as next month in United States District Court in Chicago. The National Jockey Club, which offered the bonus as operator of Sportsman's Park, filed a complaint for interpleader with the court in June, asking for a decision on whether the bonus should be awarded to Russell Reineman or The Thoroughbred Corp.

Reineman sold a 90% interest in War Emblem to The Thoroughbred Corp. for $900,000 plus commissions shortly after the son of Our Emblem won the Illinois Derby. Reineman contends he is owed at least half of the bonus.

"The interpleader is still in the documents and legal papers stage right now where each side is presenting their position," said Neil Papiano, attorney for The Thoroughbred Corp. "I expect the judge to assign a hearing or make a decision, or both, shortly after the New Year."—Jeff Lowe