Rachel Alexandra, foal taken to hospital

LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) - A spokeswoman says Rachel Alexandra, the 2009 Horse of the Year, and her newborn colt have been taken to an equine clinic for pain management related to the birth.

Spokeswoman Caroline Shaw said in an email Friday that Rachel Alexandra and the colt are expected to return to Stonestreet Farm in a couple of days, barring unforeseen issues.

They were taken to Rood and Riddle Equine Clinic in Lexington "as a precautionary measure,'' the email said.

The 6-year-old Rachel Alexandra is owned by Barbara Banke, who is also majority owner of Curlin, the 2007 and 2008 Horse of the Year and sire of the foal born Sunday.