KENTUCKY DERBY HORSES PROFILES IN ORDER OF DERBY POINTS

In Section 4 we break down the numbers and analyze the performances of the Kentucky Derby hopefuls in the longest Derby preps. In this section, Section 3, all in one place are the contenders' connections, Derby points, non-restricted stakes earnings, breeding, dosage, auction prices, arrival at Churchill Downs, stakes race results, workouts and post-race connections quotes. Workout videos are posted when available.

At The Downey Profile we like post-race quotes because they are uttered without much time to spin what happened out there. Post-race quotes include a variety of Kentucky Derby points races, some going back to 2022, in addition to the very important recent preps.

Workouts since their last race are listed below and described in more detail horse-by-horse. Check back for more details as the days unfold.

May 6 NOTE: Forte was scratched just after 9 a.m. ET following a gallop and an examination by state veterinarians.

May 5 NOTE: (a) Skinner was scratched this morning, elevated temperature cited. (b) Nineteen horses remain in the field. Forte scratch rumors unsubstantiated. It is still possible a scratch could occur, but Forte galloped on the track this morning.

May 4 NOTE: (a) Practical Move will be scratched. Elevated temperature cited. (b) Lord Miles also out per order of the KHRC and stewards. (c) Churchill Downs has indefinitely banned Joseph from entering horses. (d) Continuar scratched. (e) All three also-eligibles drew in.

May 2 NOTE: (a) Derma Sotogake, also-eligible Mandarin Hero and Sun Thunder breezed this morning at Churchill Downs. Details are posted. (b) Yesterday, track insiders said Continuar was going to breeze today, but he didn't. (c) Apparently a mistake was made when the morning line was revealed at the post position draw; Jace's Road is now listed at 50-1 instead of the 15-1 announced at the draw.

May 1 NOTE: Disarm breezed this morning at Churchill Downs, and we have the video.

April 30 NOTE: Rocket Can breezed at 7:30 a.m. and we have the video.

April 29 NOTE: Workouts today at Churchill Downs by Angel of Empire, Confidence Game, Cyclone Mischief, Forte, Hit Show, Jace's Road, Kingsbarns, Mage, Major Dude, Tapit Trice and Verifying. Skinner worked at Santa Anita. Information and videos are posted for all the workouts.

April 28 NOTE: (a) A video of Two Phil's workout yesterday at Hawthorne was posted minutes ago, and we have it posted. (b) We found video of yesterday's Raise Cain workout, and it is posted. Apology for the delay. (c) King Russell, who at one time looked like a potential also-eligible, has not put in a workout since April 16. (d) Practical Move worked at Santa Anita. Video posted. (e) Lord Miles worked at Gulfstream Park, and we have the video. (f) Reincarnate blazed four furlongs at Santa Anita. Video posted. (g) Barn numbers updated per chart by Bill Tingley. Stall numbers updated where available.

April 27 NOTE: Sadly, Wild on Ice was euthanized after he was pulled up with an injury following a workout and was vanned to a Lexington surgical center for evaluation. A terrible blow to his connections and to us racing fans.

April 27 NOTE: (a) Skinner  is confirmed for the Derby gate, with Cyclone Mischief next in line. Juan Hernandez replaces Victor Espinoza in the saddle on Skinner. (b) Two Phil's breezed at Hawthorne, and the details are posted. (c) Raise Cain breezed at Keeneland. Details are posted.

April 26 NOTE: Derma Sotogake (JPN) and Continuar (JPN) breezed in company at Churchill Downs. Video is posted. (b) Sun Thunder breezed solo with blinkers added at Churchill, and the video is posted.. (c) Potential Derby also-eligible Mandarin Hero (JPN) worked slowly at Santa Anita.

April 25 NOTE: (a) Raise Cain has lost his announced Derby jockey as Javier Castellano was named on Mage last night. Another rider hasn't been announced for Raise Cain, leading to speculation about his participation.

April 24 NOTE: (a) Disarm breezed for trainer Asmussen at Churchill Downs nine days after he finished third in the Stonestreet Lexington Stakes. It was a bullet of 18. The video is posted. (b) Riders for two horses in the main body of the Derby field had not been named yet as of this morning: Kingsbarns and Mage. (c) Speaking of Mage, he arrived at Churchill Downs early this morning.

April 23 SECOND NOTE: Blazing Sevens has defected from the Derby in favor of the Preakness. Jace's Road is now in the main body of the prospective field. Skinner and Cyclone Mischief are next in line if other defections occur.

April 23 NOTE: (a) Rocket Can breezed at Churchill Downs for trainer Mott 10 days after his last workout, which was a fast one. Video is posted. (b) Potential Derby also-eligible Cyclone Mischief breezed at Churchill for trainer Romans. Video is posted. (c) Potential Derby also-eligible Skinner breezed at Santa Anita for trainer Shirreffs. Video is posted.

April 22 SECOND NOTE: (a) Added an April 14 workout by Kingsbarns and matched up the video.

April 22 NOTE: (a) Reincarnate breezed at Santa Anita for trainer Yakteen. The video is posted. (b) At Gulfstream Park, Mage breezed for trainer Delgado, and we have the video. (c) No workouts today at Churchill Downs on a track rated muddy after overnight rain.

April 21 NOTE: (a) Trainer Pletcher sent out Forte and Tapit Trice for workouts at Churchill Downs as planned. We have videos of both workouts, Pletcher and Irad Ortiz, Jr. (b) Also on schedule in Louisville were four Kentucky Derby contenders for trainer Cox: Angel of Empire, Hit Show, Jace's Road (21st on the Derby points list and holding) and Verifying. We have videos of the Angel of Empire/Jace's Road workouts in company and the Verifying/Hit Show works in company and of trainer Cox. (c) At Santa Anita, Practical Move fired a near-bullet for trainer Yakteen, and we have video. (d) We added trainer Pletcher video comments following workouts yesterday by Kingsbarns and Major Dude. (e) Backup plan for Major Dude is the American Turf on Derby day. (f) Blazing Sevens breezed at Keeneland, and we have video. (g) Lord Miles fired a near-bullet at Gulfstream Park, and we have video. (h) Seven days after his most recent workout at Churchill Downs, Confidence Game did not work today, and rain is forecast for tomorrow. He is still in training.

April 20 NOTE: (a) Raise Cain had a leisurely breeze at Keeneland. (b) Kingsbarns and potential also-eligible Major Dude breezed in

company at Churchill Downs. (c) Trainer Pletcher said Forte and Tapit Trice will breeze Friday at Churchill. (d) Trainer Cox told DRF Angel of Empire, Hit Show, Veryifing, and Jace’s Road are likely to breeze Friday at Churchill. (e) The special 15-minute training window for only Kentucky Derby and Longines Kentucky Oaks contenders begins Saturday at 7:30 a.m. ET.  The first morning of the Kentucky Derby Morning Works show is Monday. (f) Javier Castellano will ride Raise Cain in the Derby. (g) Ryusel Sakai has the mount on Continuar (JPN). (g) Brian Hernandez, Jr. on Sun Thunder.

April 19 NOTE: (a) Derma Sotogake (JPN) put in his first recorded workout at Churchill Downs. Churchill does not have a video crew on hand yet, but according to Churchill Downs the first Kentucky Derby Morning Works show is Monday, April 24. (b) Joel Rosario to ride Disarm

April 17 NOTE: (a) Wild on Ice, winner of the Sunland Derby, breezed a bullet a few days after arriving at Churchill Downs. Jockey Tohill implied his horse should be taken seriously. (b) Arkansas Derby runner-up King Russell, 26th on the Derby points list below, was not shown today as "also-eligible" in a Churchill Downs release one day after he breezed five furlongs in 1:03.20 at the track. (c) Santa Anita Derby third-finisher Skinner, who needs defections to make the Derby field, breezed at Santa Anita. A video is not available.

April 16 NOTE: (a) Jeff Ruby winner Two Phil's breezed at Hawthorne. (b) Florida Derby runner-up Mage breezed at Gulfstream Park. See video below. (c) Arkansas Derby third-finisher Reincarnate worked at Santa Anita, and video is linked. (d) Arkansas Derby runner-up King Russell breezed at Churchill Downs.

April 15 NOTE: Disarm is number 18 on the Derby eligibility list after picking up six points by finishing third in the Stonestreet Lexington Stakes. Reincarnate was bumped from 18th to 19th. Jace's Road was moved from 19th to 21st while Continuar remained at number 20 as the representative of the Japan Road to the Derby.

April 15 NOTE: (a) Arkansas Derby winner Angel of Empire breezed early at Churchill Downs. (b) Trainer Cox also sent out Jace's Road, who hit the board in multiple Derby points races.

April 14 NOTE: (a) Strong one-mile gate work by Rebel Stakes winner Confidence Game at Churchill Downs. (b) Workouts at Palm Beach Downs by trainer Pletcher's Florida Derby winner Forte, Louisiana Derby winner Kingsbarns and Jeff Ruby runner-up Major Dude (all three on video).

April 13 NOTE: (a) Added Major Dude. Early conflicting reports about his status, but the most recent one says he will run if he makes the Derby field. (b) Fast workout by Arkansas Derby fourth-finisher Rocket Can at Churchill Downs.

Order of Listings
1 Forte  2 Practical Move  3 Angel of Empire  4 Tapit Trice  5 Two Phil's  6 Lord Miles  7 Derma Sotogake (JPN)  8 Kingsbarns  9 Raise Cain 10 Rocket Can  11 Hit Show  12 Confidence Game  13 Verifying  14 Sun Thunder  15 Mage  16 Disarm  17 Reincarnate  18 Jace's Road 19 Skinner 20 Continuar (JPN)  21 Cyclone Mischief  22 Major Dude  23 Mandarin Hero (JPN)  24 King Russell

FORTE (KY) 3-1  #15  SCRATCHED
Derby Points: 190
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $2,359,730
Jockey: Irad Ortiz, Jr.
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Owner: Repole Stable and St. Elias Stable
Breeder: South Gate Farm
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Violence (Medaglia d'Oro, Violent Beauty)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Queen Carolina (Blame, Queen's Plaza)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 4-4-5-1-0 (14) 3.00
Foal Date: Feb. 3, 2020

Auction Price(s)
$80,000 Keeneland November 2020
$110,000 Keeneland September 2021

Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 17, barn 39, stall 24

WORKOUTS

April 14 - 50:23 Breezing 16/25 PBD dirt fast  VIDEO
Forte breezed in company with Bright Future (also 50.23), a 4-year-old son of Curlin that won an allowance race April 1 at GP. “With Forte we were just looking for a nice, easy first work back," Pletcher said.

April 21 - 1:02.00 Breezing 29/33 CD dirt fast VIDEO  TODD PLETCHER COMMENTS  IRAD ORTIZ, JR COMMENTS
This looks to have been Forte's major breeze for the Derby. Trainer Pletcher said of Forte and Tapit Trice after their workouts today, "We'll probably do a little less next week, we'll play it by ear and see how the week is." Forte had Irad Ortiz, Jr. on board and ran fractions of 26.20 and 38.60, then out six furlongs in 1:14.40 and seven in 1:27.00. Forte started about a half-length behind Bright Future.

Ortiz said, “It was a normal work from him, which is exactly what you want to see. I let him start going at the five-furlong pole and just get into stride. Going into the turn he stayed with the other horse. When I tipped him out in the stretch he responded well and galloped out nicely. His mind has changed a lot this year from last year. I’m happy with that. He’s growing physically but has a great mind.”

Trainer Pletcher said, "Forte is a very straightforward horse to train. He’s pushbutton. When Irad asked him to sit just off of his workmate this morning he did just that. When you press ‘go’, he quickly accelerated to put a head in front of his workmate.”

April 29 - 49:80 Breezing 96/149 CD dirt fast  VIDEO  IRAD ORTIZ JR VIDEO  TODD PLETCHER VIDEO

TOP RESULTS
1st Florida Derby
1st Fountain of Youth Stakes
1st Breeders’ Cup Juvenile
1st Claiborne Breeders’ Futurity
1st Hopeful Stakes
4th Sanford Stakes

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE FLORIDA DERBY

Trainer Todd Pletcher, Forte (first): “I was worried, he had a lot to do turning for home. He had to angle out really wide and kind of got a wide trip all the way around there, but he had a pretty smooth run it; he just had to lose a lot of ground to do it. It looked like he had a lot to do still at the eighth pole but then really kicked in the last part and found his best stride the last sixteenth.

“He just continues to amaze us. He gets better and better. He handled the stretchout to a mile an eighth great and actually probably ran a mile and three-sixteenths today. It gives you a lot of confidence moving forward. He got a lot of experience today. The one good thing about here is you get a big crowd, a noisy crowd, long post parade, so they get exposed to a lot. That experience hopefully pays off down the road.”

Jockey Irad Ortiz Jr., Forte (first): “In the first part of the race with that post, it was impossible to going that wide so I had a horse with speed beside me. We went to the first turn and those horses cleared me and I said, ‘Oh my God.’ I thought he could clear them and he didn’t do it so I said, ‘OK, go to Plan B.’ I had to take a hold. Now I’m a little far back and I have to use him the whole way on the turn. On the backside I let him roll. I keep riding, I keep coming and going to the quarter pole he gave me a good feeling. He grabbed the bit and the outside horse moved and he gave me a good feeling and he’s ready to roll. He jumped on the bit and I said, ‘OK we can go around.’ The trainer told me to ride him with patience, it’s a long stretch going a mile an eighth so that’s what I did.”

Twitter observation by jockey Jose Valenzuela w/ photo of Forte sweating on his neck in the post parade, translated from espanol: "This wears out the horses and even more so if they are restless for a good period of time, as it happened."

THE NEXT DAY: Trainer Pletcher said, “I think the one thing we learned in the Florida Derby is that he handled the race really well. The best part of the race for him was the last sixteenth of a mile, which gives you confidence that the added distance won’t be an issue. He seems to have taken it well. He was on his toes after the race which he normally is, just like he is kind of in the walking ring beforehand.

“It showed that he still had some good energy left after the race, but we’ll learn a lot more about that as we kind of train this week. What was impressive yesterday was when he did make the lead, he kind of pricked his ears again which we’ve seen him do a number of times. It kind of makes you believe there’s a little more in the tank there.”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH STAKES

Trainer Todd Pletcher, Forte (first): “He kind of got jostled around a bit leaving there. We got to the spot where we wanted to get to. He was able to save some ground on the first turn, He was traveling well behind those horses and it pretty much unfolded the way we talked about and the way we hoped.”

“We kind of carefully laid it out and put him in a program that would put him in the condition to be ready to run and still having room for improvement and room to continue to develop. I think we were able to accomplish that.”

“Honestly, I can’t say I was surprised. I felt really, really good the way this horse was coming into the race. It looks like there’s a lot of upside.”

Jockey Irad Ortiz Jr., Forte (first): “I had a beautiful trip. Everything I expected happened. I wanted to get a good position forwardly placed. I was right behind the horse I had to be. I just bided my time to go, decided to wait a little more, two more jumps until the three-eighths [pole]. I went around horses and let him go and show what he can do.”

“He’s a nice horse. He just came back from his 2-year old [campaign]. He just turned 3 and it is nice to see him back the way he did it today. I think the race is going to set him up for future races well for sure. I mean, he was ready today. I worked him and he was doing everything so well and so easy. I had a lot of confidence in him today, but I think after this race after the long layoff, it’ll set him up good. He’s handled the kickback pretty good before, so I wasn't afraid. He broke clean and just kept going forward. I kept him out, and he did the rest.”

Owner Mike Repole, Forte (first): “It’s special. Very special. Very special. You know, for a horse making his first start in four months against other horses who have already raced this year, he does it with so much confidence. It’s like everything you see – breaks well, sits well, moves well, looks great. He’s just checking all the boxes right now. He’s a pretty special horse right now.”

Kentucky Derby – “It’s always been the dream. Dream big, dream bigger. It’s a good feeling right now.”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE BREEDERS' CUP JUVENILE

Trainer Todd Pletcher, Forte (first): “Obviously delighted with everything. He got a beautiful trip. Just kept coming. I think we both got a fair run at it today (referring to being second choice to Cave Rock). He got that two-turn experience (in the Breeders’ Futurity) and it paid off today. He’s much more professional today. We learned a little something (from the Breeders’ Futurity) and we tweaked off the last race and it paid off coming here.

“The last time, he made the lead pretty comfortably, but he got to waiting and laying on the horse next to him, so today if we were lucky enough to get in a position to get (the lead), we wanted to give ourselves plenty of space and not get close to the horse next to him.”

Jockey Irad Ortiz Jr., Forte (first): “Beautiful trip. I broke good, saved some ground around the first turn and took my time down the backside. I started making my move around turn. I hit him once and he responded. He deserves all the credit.”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE CLAIBORNE BREEDERS' FUTURITY STAKES

Assistant trainer Amelia Green, Forte (first) (commenting on Forte's antics in the paddock): "Todd warned me this morning that in Saratoga he was exactly like that" before the Hopeful Stakes. "He didn't do anything bad, you could just see he was on edge and ready to go."

Trainer Todd Pletcher, Forte (first): "I loved the way he handled the two turns. It was great to get that experience under his belt before the Breeders' Cup. It seemed like the track was playing a little bit toward speed, so I was a little concerned when they turned up to the backside. But it seemed like he was traveling well, was able to improve his position along the way, and got by a good horse [Loggins]. I think there is room for improvement off that."

Jockey Irad Ortiz Jr., Forte (first) “At the turn, he was still figuring it out. He’s a young horse, and I had to start working really hard on him. He started doing it little by little, but by the time I got there and hit the lead he started acting a little green and laying in a little bit. I had to take a big hold of him the whole stretch. He didn’t even let me ride him that well. The whole time I had to hold him and, that horse inside of me, take care of him at the same time as I win the race.”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE HOPEFUL STAKES

Trainer Todd Pletcher, Forte (first): “Last time, he wasn’t able to get extracted into the clear until really, really late. When he did, he showed some interest. He came back and trained really well with some older horses. His last breeze was with Bal Harbour who won earlier on the card. There were a lot of good indications that he was going to rebound and run to his capabilities, but you never know until you see it. I felt like the added distance was in his favor and he’s a nice colt.

“He came really energetic into the paddock, but it was a good energy, though. You could tell he was kind of enjoying the rain and playing in the slop and splashing in the puddles in the paddock. I love the way he kicked away from the pony, he warmed up awesome.

“We were looking for the outside but if you watch the head on, the outside was way, way out there. So, there was no other option other than to stay in. We tried to stay off the rail a little bit even though he was on the inside. There were puddles down in there and we wanted to get on the best part of the racetrack. Watching the head on, they were pretty spread out.”

Jockey Irad Ortiz, Jr., Forte (first): “They ran away from me a little bit and my horse doesn’t have that kind of speed. I didn’t panic, I knew we’d be in the back. I kept him in the race, and in the turn I started working on him. He started to pick it up slowly, but he picked it up. At the top of the stretch, I hit him a couple times and he responded really well. I knew I had a chance to win, so I just kept him busy.

“He was enjoying the time out there. He saw the water and was playing in it, so I thought maybe he’d like the slop. Todd told me to warm him up good before the race, I just tried to follow instructions and it worked out good.”



PRACTICAL MOVE (KY) 10-1  Post 10   SCRATCHED
Derby Points: 160
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $822,000
Jockey: Ramon Vazquez
Trainer: Tim Yakteen
Owner: Amestoy, Leslie A., Amestoy, Jr., Pierre Jean and Beasley, Roger K.
Breeder: Chad Brown & Head of Plains Partners
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Practical Joke (Into Mischief, Halo Humor)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Ack Naughty (Afleet Alex, Dash for Money)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 1-0-1-0-0 (2) 3.00
Foal Date: April 30, 2020

Auction Price(s)
$90,000 RNA Keeneland September 2021
$230,000 OBS April 2022

Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 29, barn 27

WORKOUTS

April 21 - 47.00 Handily 2/31 SA dirt fast VIDEO

The work was in company with Kangaroo Court, and trainer Yakteen's watch matched the official and identical workout time for both with what he termed a strong gallop-out in “59 seconds and change." Kangaroo Court will be entered in the Pat Day Mile. Kangaroo Court was purchased for $7,500 at the 2021 Arizona Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association Fall Mixed Sale by owner George Sharp. He has banked $197,200 in four starts.

April 28 - 59:60 Handily 2/32 SA dirt fast  VIDEO
Trainer Yakteen said, “Practical Move went really nice as well (as Reincarnate). We’re very happy with what we saw. Knock on wood, but we should be all set.”

TOP RESULTS
1st Santa Anita Derby
1st San Felipe Stakes
1st Los Alamitos Futurity
3rd Bob Hope Stakes

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE SANTA ANITA DERBY

Trainer Tim Yakteen, Practical Move (first): “It's a great feeling to go back-to-back in this race. The rush you get—that's why you get in the game! You're calling wire when you're on the lead, and you're looking for more when you're closing ground."

Jockey Ramon Vazquez, Practical Move (first): “I made the move a little early because I saw Berrios (on One in Vermillion) look at me from the inside. I knew he wanted to put me inside a little bit tight, so I just moved my horse to the outside take a new position, made him relax a little bit and when I asked him the last quarter he responded really well. The other horse (Mandarin Hero) is a nice horse too and ran really well. I’m feeling amazing. When you ride a good horse like that, that’s your dream always to go to the Kentucky Derby.

Part owner Jean Pierre Amestoy, Jr., Practical Move (first): “We were a little worried that he didn’t get through early enough, but he finally made it through. He opened up a little bit, but those are good horses. They came up to him in the end but he was tough enough. Got his head in front and won the race. I think we are confident. I think we will catch the distance and he’s proven he’s a fighter, he’s a winner, so we’re going to go to Kentucky with our heads high and hope to bring the trophy back to this side of the country.”

Millie Ball, trainer Yakteen's wife: “I was sick to my stomach, honestly, I’ve never felt like that during a horse race before, but I just wanted everything to go well for the barn. Both horses ran good. It really is hard to believe that we’re in this position. When you think about the years that Tim’s been in the game and the education he’s had. The people he’s worked underneath, the Charlie Whittingham’s the Bob Baffert’s…It’s, I’m a little surprised Tim’s had the foundation to be put in that position and then know what to do when he’s in this position…For it to all come true, you’ve gotta have so much luck. You’ve got to have the owners behind you and you have got to have the horse and this horse is incredible, incredible! If he can get a mile and a quarter, he’ll win the Derby!”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE SAN FELIPE STAKES

Trainer Tim Yakteen, Practical Move (first): “He is a very healthy horse. He is a phenomenally gifted horse. I am amazed at how strong he is and how he has matured from a two-year-old to a three-year-old. Everything has fallen into place. There was only one challenge before this race, I felt we needed to get one more work in.

“There is nothing more satisfying than winning, so I am taking this in stride. I have to give kudos to my staff and thank them for the job they have done. They are the unsung heroes here. I’ve also got to tip my hat to Leslie (Amestoy) and Jean Pierre (Amestoy). They were the ones who went to Florida and bought this horse.

“I plan to start him again. I want to leave the canvas blank now and we’ll make the call later, but I think he will have one more start before the Derby.”

Jockey Ramon Vazquez, Practical Move (first): “This horse keeps getting better and better every day. He can go inside or outside. He is comfortable wherever. He lets me do my job and he does the rest. I only rode him once (In the Los Alamitos Futurity), but I know he is very aggressive from the gate, so I let him do his thing. He galloped out very good. I have always dreamed of winning the Kentucky Derby. I had one previous chance in 2015 (aboard Mr. Z) for Mr. (D. Wayne) Lukas. I’m hoping for another chance here.”

Co-owner Leslie Amestoy, Practical Move (first): “This was our dream. It’s been our dream for years and we love the colt, we are so happy and we really think we have a great horse.”

Co-owner Jean Pierre Amestoy, Practical Move (first): “This was our dream. It’s been our “We’ve seen him improve every race, almost. The first couple of races, he was green and didn’t know how to switch leads. Tim has brought him along perfectly and has taught him, and now he’s finishing like we expected he could finish. Like Leslie said, I think we’ve got a good one.”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE LOS ALAMITOS FUTURITY

Trainer Tim Yakteen, Practical Move (first): "The horse got himself in a great position and Ramon did a great job. It was just a matter of whether we were going to be able to get the distance today or not. I think he validated himself as a route horse today."

Jockey Ramon Vazquez, Practical Move (first): "He relaxed perfectly. I had to make a decision turning for home whether to go inside or outside. When the leader drifted out a bit, there was an opening. He came right through and gave me a very nice finish."

ANGEL OF EMPIRE (PA) 8-1  #14
Derby Points: 154
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $1,026,375
Jockey: Flavien Prat
Trainer: Brad Cox
Owner: Albaugh Family Stables LLC
Breeder: Forgotten Land Investment Inc & Black Diamond Equine Corp.
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Classic Empire (Pioneerof the Nile, Sambuca Classica)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Armony's Angel (To Honor and Serve, Seeinsbelieven)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 4-4-2-0-0 (10) 9.00
Foal Date: April 9, 2020

Auction Price(s)
$32,000 RNA Keeneland November 2020
$70,000 Keeneland September 2021

Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 4, barn 22

WORKOUTS

April 15 - 48:20 Breezing 20/99 CD dirt fast

The work was at 5:30 ET. Angel of Empire breezed in company outside of Tapit's Conquest (also 48.20) under exercise rider Edvin Vargas. Angel of Empire wore blinkers, according to Churchill Downs. Angel of Empire did not wear blinkers in the Arkansas Derby, but according to Churchill Angel of Empire has previously used blinkers in workouts. Initial fractions were 12.40 and 24.40, and Angel of Empire was out five furlongs in 1:00.80 according to clocker John Nichols. “It was a solid morning with three weeks out from the Derby,” trainer Cox said.

April 21 - 1:13.40   Breezing 1/2 CD dirt fast VIDEO  BRAD COX COMMENTS
Trainer Cox said they were looking to do more with Angel of Empire and Jace's Road working in company (six furlongs) than the set of Hit Show and Verifying (five furlongs). Trainer Cox added, “Angel of Empire is the type of horse we’ve been confident all along that can handle the mile-and-a-quarter distance in the Derby. He excelled going the longer distance in the Arkansas Derby and moves like the type of horse that will like a route of ground." Angel of Empire and Jace's Road broke off at the 5/8 mile pole and worked past the wire to mid-turn, six furlongs on Cox's watch in 1:13.20, and out seven in 1:26.40. Cox said the works are designed mainly to maintain fitness. According to track clocker John Nichols, their initial fractions were 12.20, 23.80, 35.60 and 1:00.40, and they galloped out seven furlongs in 1:26.40.

Angel of Empire April 29 1.01:40 Breezing 23/54 CD dirt fast (official clocking)  VIDEO

Chris Landeros, who was board Angel of Empire, said, "He seems to have a lot of gears. He’s a really nice colt and worked easily.”

TOP RESULTS
1st Arkansas Derby
1st Risen Star Stakes
2nd Smarty Jones Stakes

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE ARKANSAS DERBY

Trainer Brad Cox, Angel of Empire (first): "It was a big run. We always saw hm as a mile-and-a-mile quarter, mile-and-an-eighth horse and now he's won twice at a mile-and-an-eighth. His sire won this race, and I think he'll do better with more distance. Very impressed with this horse, how he ran today. He came home quick, and he’s a horse that the the longer the better.

"The older he’s getting the better he’s getting, bottom line. I think he really took to six weeks between races. He ran well here to start the year. He showed that he was going to want more ground. Out of the Risen Star, I thought he was just maybe a little tucked up, a little tired. He’s come around over the last three, four weeks. Now he’s back in top form and very happy how he looked physically leading up to this.”

“It was a good group of horses. I didn’t think there was a standout or a leader — obviously Forte is the leader of the division. I felt it was a nice open race that anybody good step up and win it. And he stepped up. He was very impressive today. I always thought he’d be better with more ground and obviously he’s 2 for 2 at a mile and an eighth. Hopefully we can be 1 for 1 at a mile and a quarter in five weeks.

"Just watching him in the paddock, I was telling Jason, ‘He’s a cool, calm horse. If there is anybody who can handle 150,000 people it would be this horse.' And then the way he presented himself. Once he was tacked up, he was out in the infield (before the race), kind of got on his toes but didn’t get hot. It was good energy.”

Jockey Flavien Prat, Angel of Empire (first): "Jumped well and then we got ourselves in a good spot. Down the backside, I was traveling really well. Caught a little wide, but I was pleased going this way and I wasn't too worried about it. When I squeezed him turning for home, he really responded well and went on.”

Albaugh Racing Manager Jason Loutsch, Angel of Empire (first): "I can't wait until the first Saturday in May. It's going to be a long, five-week wait. We couldn't be more excited. I thought he dominated this race, and we're going to Kentucky with a lot of confidence. I hope people believe what we've been saying about his stamina now. It would be fantastic if we can get three horses in the Derby, but I know we have one."

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE RISEN STAR STAKES

Trainer Brad Cox, Angel of Empire (first): “Physically it looks like he can run all day. We could see that last summer when we got him ready to run. We started him a mile at Indiana and it worked out. We had a little pace to run at today and it worked out well. It’s five weeks to the Louisiana Derby, and we’ll look at that, all the Grade 1s will be in the conversation. We’ll let the dust settle and see how he comes out of it. This is a horse that we thought as the months go by he’ll get better, and he has.”

Jockey Luis Saez, Angel of Empire (first): “I watched his replays and knew he is a nice horse. The key with him is to follow the right horse. We got lucky. When he got to the 3/8ths pole, I was pretty loaded. When we got to the top of the straight, I checked if I had the horse, he just kept going, and I just tried to go with him.”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE SMARTY JONES STAKES

Trainer Brad Cox, Angel of Empire (second): “Nice horse and the longer they go, the better he’s going to get. Excited about him.”



TAPIT TRICE (KY) 5-1  #5
Derby Points: 150
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $783,500
Jockey: Luis Saez
Trainer: Todd A. Pletcher
Owner: Whisper Hill Farm, LLC and Gainesway Stable (Antony Beck)
Breeder: Gainesway Thoroughbreds Ltd.
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Tapit (Pulpit, Tap Your Heels)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Danzatrice (Dunkirk, Lady Pewitt)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 5-15-11-1-0 (32) 3.92
Foal Date: Feb. 17, 2020

Auction Price(s)
$1,300,000 Keeneland September 2021

Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 16, barn 39, stall 28

WORKOUTS

April 21 - 48.60 Breezing 11/68 CD dirt fast VIDEO  TODD PLETCHER COMMENTS

This looks to have been Tapit Trice's major breeze for the Derby. Trainer Pletcher said of Forte and Tapit Trice after their workouts today, "We'll probably do a little less next week, we'll play it by ear and see how the week is." With exercise rider Amelia Green up, he registered an initial split of 12.80, out five furlongs in 1:01 and six in 1:13.80.

April 29 - 48:20 Breezing 20/149 CD dirt fast  VIDEO   See FORTE section for Todd Pletcher interview

TOP RESULTS
1st Toyota Blue Grass Stakes
1st Tampa Bay Derby

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE TOYOTA BLUE GRASS STAKES

Trainer Todd Pletcher, Tapit Trice (first): “He didn’t jump well, but then he gained a little momentum. It got a little hairy going into the first turn, but when he was able to secure that spot. Luis was able to take him out in the clear down the backside. That was the position we hoped to get into, and once he got into that stride I thought we were in good shape. Yeah (slow out of the gate), that’s him. We’re not going to make him into a quick horse. The distances, as they stretch out, we always felt like would make him better. I think (the 1 1/4 miles is right in his wheelhouse.”

Jockey Luis Saez, Tapit Trice (first): On the objection from jockey of runner-up Verifying he said, “I just feel like I was riding Tapit Trice perfectly. We came and passed (Verifying) clear and then when I was in front I felt like somebody hit my horse from behind. I feel like the other guy (jockey Tyler Gaffalione) tried to look for a chance and look for a foul. That’s what I feel. I didn’t feel like we would come down. I kept the horse straight and he won the race.”

Was the early move to get clear a key to the win? “Yes, definitely. First of all, we had a tough position (post 1), especially with him, because he takes a little while to get going. In the first turn we had an opportunity to put him in the clear. I made a little move early, because the pace was pretty slow, so I could get behind the horse we were supposed to beat. I know we have to beat everybody, but that was the horse (Verifying) to follow, so we were right there, and when he made his move we were right on top of him.”

Co-owner Mandy Pope, Tapit Trice (first): “We’ll have one of the favorites. It is so awesome. It’s unbelievable for me. It’s dreams come true and a lot of hard work from a lot of people. It’s the determination that quality does pay off and quality is worth all the effort. From pedigree to the physical to the trainers to the barn crew at each of our farms who raise the horses and break them – they’re all quality people and it’s a quality effort. Hopefully quality continues up the road.”

Breeder and co-owner Antony Beck of Gainesway Farm, Tapit Trice (first): “He’s absolutely outstanding. It’s wonderful to be partners with Mandy. It’s a great friendship. We both love, love horses; we both love the sport. Tapit has been an incredible stallion and this is another one of his incredible horses. I also want to thank John Fort (of Peachtree Stable), who selected Danzatrice (dam of Tapit Trice) for me as a 2-year-old. Without that, we wouldn’t be here.”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING FEB. 4 ALLOWANCE RACE AT GULFSTREAM PARK

Trainer Todd Pletcher, Tapit Trice, first by 8 lengths: “He’s a colt we’re had high hopes for all along. He improved from his first to second start and he improved again today. The exciting thing about him is the farther he goes, the better he’ll get. I kind of expected him not to break all that well today from the one-hole going a one-turn mile. But he recovered quickly, put himself in good tactical position and was impressive from there.”



TWO PHIL'S (KY) 12-1  #3
Derby Points: 123
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $643,850
Jockey: Jareth Loveberry
Trainer: Larry Rivelli
Owner: Patricia's Hope LLC and Sagan, Phillip, and Madaket Stable
Breeder: Phillip Sagan
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Hard Spun (Danzig, Turkish Tryst)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Mia Tori (General Quarters, Flip the Stone)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 2-7-11-0-0 (20) 2.64
Foal Date: March 16, 2020

Auction Price(s)
$150,000 RNA Keeneland September 2020

Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 30, barn 1

WORKOUTS
April 9 - 49:60 Breezing 3/10 HAW dirt fast

April 16 - 1.00:00 Breezing 1/10 HAW dirt fast

April 27 - 59:00 Breezing 1/16 HAW dirt fast  VIDEO

Regular rider Jareth Loveberry handled the move after flying in from Keeneland, then he flew back for the end of the meet. Trainer Rivelli will ship Two Phil’s to Churchill Downs on Sunday, April 30 and plans to have him on the track at 7:30 a.m. the next day.

“He chased a pretty fast horse (stablemate Smokin Richie), and effortlessly ran by him,” Rivelli said. “He galloped out three-quarters in 1:12. He couldn’t blow out a match after. The last two works were almost identically the same, but I changed it up a bit by putting him back in company. I haven’t wanted to work him every seven days because he’s been racing frequently and he’s fit. I just want to have him focused in on what he likes to do which is sit behind a horse and idle off until you ask him, and then make his move when it’s time. And he’s done that in both works. The track was in great shape today. It’s all systems go and I couldn’t be happier with how he’s going into the race.”

TOP RESULTS
1st Jeff Ruby Steaks
3rd Risen Star Stakes
2nd Lecomte Stakes
1st Street Sense Stakes

CONNECTIONS QUOTES BEFORE AND FOLLOWING THE JEFF RUBY STEAKS

Winning trainer Larry Rivelli a few days before the Ruby: “I've been trying to think of the easiest spot for the money and I think this will be the spot. If he absolutely hates the surface, that's on me. I'm sort of putting myself out there saying that I think he will run well over it.”

Trainer Larry Rivelli, Two Phil's (first): “I think he probably prefers this surface better than he does the dirt, but I guess you can't change Churchill Downs. When he won in the Street Sense, I thought, 'I hope it rains on Derby Day again!' He really, really has [matured]. As he's gotten older, we've schooled him, we've done the proper stuff that we're supposed to do with him, but he never turns a hair. Nothing bothers him. He trained on this track unbelievable,The original plan probably wasn’t to run in this spot. I was just looking for the best route to get Two Phil’s to the Kentucky Derby. With this race on the calendar I thought it was the perfect timing and perfect spot. We’re on our way to the Derby.” Rivelli said Two Phil’s will head back to Hawthorne Park and ship to Louisville about three weeks before the Kentucky Derby.

Jockey Jareth Loveberry, Two Phil’s (first): “This horse is really special to us. And he’s won at Churchill Downs before. I hope it rains on Derby Day again. I was hoping ... I could try to tuck in as soon as I could. He just relaxed nicely. [Wadsworth] had me covered up, and he does a lot better when he's covered up. Just a dream trip. Got him tilted out, and he finished. Three weeks ago I suffered a hairline fracture in my left fibula but I’m pretty high on life right now and don’t feel that too much. Two Phil’s has seemed to get better each week this winter at Fair Grounds. Last time he had a beautiful trip, but he seems to do his best running while behind horses. I think h’es getting better with each start. He ran well in the Lecomte, but I thought he was even better in the Risen Star. It’s just very exciting to be partnered with a horse like this and a team that’s supported me.”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE RISEN STAR STAKES

Jockey Jareth Loveberry, Two Phil’s (third): “I liked where I drew in the 10-hole with the speed outside me. When (Two Phil’s) gets behind a horse, he relaxes and drops the bit. I had him covered up he ran really well. He made a big move in the turn, that’s where he makes his moves, but he just got beat today.”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE LECOMTE STAKES

Jockey Jareth Loveberry, Two Phil's (second): “I thought he moved a half a touch early, but he ran really good. He dug back in, he wanted to come back. He got outrun today, but he’ll be back.” (Instant Coffee won, Confidence Game third)

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE STREET SENSE STAKES

Trainer Larry Rivelli, Two Phil's (first): “He’s been roughed around a couple times but Jareth has really figured him out. He gave him a great ride today and has worked with him in each start to get to mature. He’s learned to relax and he’s a solid, sound horse. He ran great today and we’re thrilled with his potential.”

Jockey Jareth Loveberry, Two Phil's (first): “He’s shown a lot of maturity in his last couple of starts. He’s started learning a lot more and settling early into the race. He got a little bounced around today but down the backside I got him to settle nicely and at the half-mile pole we were in a good position. I tipped him out a little bit and he showed me a lot of run.”



LORD MILES (KY)  30-1  #19 SCRATCHED
Derby Points: 105
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $427,100
Jockey: Paco Lopez
Trainer: Saffie Joseph, Jr.
Owner: Vegso Racing Stable
Breeder: Vegso Racing Stable
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Curlin (Smart Strike (CAN), Sherriff's Deputy)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Lady Esme (Majestic Warrior, Come a Callin)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 5-6-9-0-0 (20) 3.44
Foal Date: March 30, 2023

Auction Price(s)
None

Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 29, barn 42

WORKOUTS

April 21 - 47.05 Breezing 2/33 GP dirt fast VIDEO click a second time if not initially successful

Exercise rider Andrew Thomas was aboard. Fractions for the work weren't made available by Gulfstream Park. Trainer Joseph said, “It was a good easy work but probably a tad faster than ideal, but he did it well within himself and he was moving well – that’s the important thing. He came out of the Wood well. He shipped back (from New York to Florida) and he’s held his weight. His weight and his energy seem to be in good order. He’ll come back, all being well, and work next Friday. He’ll go five furlongs and we’ll ship Saturday or Sunday to Churchill Downs. He won the Wood, but his race in the Wood isn’t going to be good enough to win the Derby. He’s going to have to improve again."

April 28 - 1.02:41 Breezing 12/13 GP dirt fast  VIDEO

Exercise rider Andrew Thomas was aboard for the workout. Trainer Joseph texted the Churchill Downs notes team, “He worked well. All being well, we will leave tomorrow." He told Gulfstream Park publicity, "We just wanted a steady five-eighths. We got what we wanted. He went well. He’ll need to improve a lot to have a chance. Hopefully, he has a good week and runs the race of his life."

TOP RESULTS
1st Wood Memorial
5th Tampa Bay Derby
6th Holy Bull Stakes
3rd Mucho Macho Man Stakes

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE WOOD MEMORIAL

Trainer Saffie Joseph, Jr., Lord Miles (first): "God is good. From the top of the stretch when I realized he had a chance to get a piece of it, I was just thankful. At the eighth pole, I was thinking go get second and then - wait a minute - and there it was. He was a horse we thought a lot of and he showed up today when it counted most.

"He got in such a good position and was more in the bridle. Paco gave him a great ride. Today was a big move forward because of the Tampa Bay Derby. In the Tampa Bay Derby, Paco taught him to keep running. He tried on him and he kept running and got fifth. I was very proud of him that day.

"He ran huge. After his first start, I was dreaming Derby. The Mucho Macho Man was good, but from there everything was derailed. The Holy Bull went wrong, the Tampa Bay Derby was a step in the right direction, but we were probably running out of time. Today, here we are, one more time and it worked out.

"I learned to take chances because of Math Wizard [who won at 31-1 in the 2019 Grade 1 Pennsylvania Derby]. John Fanelli, the [co-] owner, pushed me to run there and it worked out. From there, I learned in life to never stop taking chances. If the horse is doing good, take a chance, because each chance you don't take is a chance you miss.”

On the dramatic stretch run and inquiry/objection: "I knew they got in tight. Watching the head on, I thought we were good, but you're dealing with opinion. You never want to be in that position, but I accepted that if something happened at least we would be second. But I didn't think there should be a change."

Jockey Paco Lopez, Lord Miles (first): "The one [Dreamlike] came out and Franco [aboard Hit Show] was looking for room and so he bumped into my horse. My horse stayed in line all the time and stayed fighting for the line. It was a tight race. He ran a very good race, I knew I had a chance. I know at Tampa he didn’t give me a very good race the first time I rode him. This time didn’t have too much time to jog and gallop him (in Tampa). This time I had plenty of time and that helped me a lot today and it worked out very well today. He gave me a beautiful run today."

THE NEXT DAY: "Tapit Trice would be my Derby pick if I didn't have a horse in the race,” Joseph said.

Joseph said Lord Miles raced on-and-off the bridle in his races leading up to the Wood Memorial. He made his first three starts at Gulfstream Park, winning on debut traveling six furlongs ahead of a closing third in the Much Macho Man in January. He added blinkers for the Grade 3 Holy Bull and was a distant sixth before a last-out fifth with blinkers off and Lopez aboard for the first time in the Grade 3 Tampa Bay Derby. Joseph credited Lopez for the win.

"He traveled well yesterday but between the five-eighths and the half, he came off the bridle and it looked like he was almost done, but Paco was able to keep him going,” Joseph said.

"The main thing with him is his greenness to stay on the bridle. It worked out much better yesterday because he broke well and was able to stay in the clear. The Derby is going to be a different story with 20 horses. Hopefully, he keeps learning and gets more focused."

Lord Miles shipped out of Belmont Park for Gulfstream Park by van. Trainer Joseph said, “He might have both works (at Gulfstream) or he could work once and then go to Kentucky, but we'll give it a couple days and come up with a plan. He was good this morning. He checked up well, ate up his food and came out of the race well. This will be our third Derby in the last four years and I've learned just to get there is good and then hope for the best. Last year, with White Abarrio, we thought we'd have a pretty good chance, but it didn't work out the way we wanted. But you appreciate being there and anything can happen in the Derby, like we saw last year with Rich Strike."



DERMA SOTOGAKE (JPN)  10-1  #17
Derby Points: 100
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $1,112,319
Jockey: Christophe Lemaire
Trainer: Hidetaka Otonashi
Owner: Hiroyuki Asanuma
Breeder: Shadai Farm
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Mind Your Biscuits (Posse, Jazzmane)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Amour Poesie (JPN), (Neo Universe (JPN), Happy Request (JPN))
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 1-1-2-0-0 (4) 3.00
Foal Date: April 28, 2020

Auction Price(s)
$163,397 JHRA Yearling and Foal Sale 2021

Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 8, barn Q1

WORKOUTS

April 19 - 49:60 Breezing 16/20 CD dirt fast

Initial fractions were 13 and 37.20, according to Churchill Downs clocker John Nichols. He warmed up for about 25 minutes in the mile chute. “I am really happy with how he moved today,” exercise rider Masatoshi Segawa said. “He felt great. We didn’t want to go too fast today so I had to keep a strong hold on him throughout and even then he performed brilliantly. Now I can start to get really excited about Derby Day.”

April 26 - 1:01.40 Breezing 4/7 CD dirt fast  VIDEO

The work was in company with Continuar and ended in the middle of the first turn. Both broke off from the four-furlong marker. His splits were 13.20, 25.80, 37.20, 48.60, 1:01.40. Internal fractions were 13.20, 12.60, 11.40, 11.40 and 12.80. Kate Hunter, the Japan Racing Association representative for the Kentucky Derby, said that both riders were happy with the works, with Derma Sotogake's rider pleased with the response in the stretch. Breaking off at the half-mile pole, Continuar was three lengths in front. By the head of the stretch, Derma Sotogake had drawn even and was clear at the wire.

May 2 - Derma Sotogake (JPN) 49:60 Breezing 13/20 CD dirt fast  VIDEO
After the workout, assistant trainer Masanari Tanaka said, “I think from the outside he will be able to take a decent position keeping an eye on the whole field in the early stages. He broke quickly from the gate (at Churchill Downs) the other day, so I think it won’t be a problem.”

TOP RESULTS
1st UAE Derby
3rd Saudi Derby

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE UAE DERBY

Trainer Hidetake Otonashi, Derma Sotogake (first): "We were confident he would improve from [a third-place finish in the Saudi Derby Feb. 25], especially going around two corners. We didn't exactly plan to go straight to the lead but he broke well. We were expecting him to improve and go well, but you can never expect things to go that well. We had a different jockey and different ground so you can never be sure how well it works out, but it did. He will go straight to Kentucky from Dubai. We'll discuss it but Christophe will probably keep it; he said he would anyway!”

Jockey Christophe Lemaire, Derma Sotogake (first): “The only concern was to get a good start and be in a good position. It’s good to go to the front on this dirt track. I didn’t have to push the horse to make the lead, he travelled really well, and he accelerated. The Japanese horses in that race are really good. It really means something when you win a Derby by 5 1/2 lengths. How could you refuse a mount in the Kentucky Derby? I had my first experience last year (13th on Crown Pride ) and I'd be happy to go again.

"He can break a little slowly so it was important he began well to use his gate on the rail and he did just that. He travelled nicely on the lead and he relaxed for me down the back stretch. He was still moving smoothly for me as we came into the home stretch and once I pressed the button he was very impressive and I could enjoy the finish on him."

Owner Hiroyuki Asanuma, Derma Sotogake (first): "Of course! Yes, I will go! I have been in this business for 30 years and this is my first big horse."

SAUDI DERBY

No quotes available. Commissioner King edged Havnameltdown in the Saudi Derby. Derma Sotogake was third.



KINGSBARNS (KY)  12-1  #6
Derby Points: 100
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $600,000
Jockey: Jose Ortiz
Trainer: Todd A. Pletcher
Owner: Spendthrift Farm LLC
Breeder: Parks Investment Group, LLC
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Uncle Mo (Indian Charlie, Playa Maya)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Lady Tapit (Tapit, Temperence Gift)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 2-4-6-2-0 (14) 1.80
Foal Date: Jan. 17, 2020

Auction Price(s)
$250,000 Fasig-Tipton Saratoga August 2021
$800,000 Fasig-Tipton Florida March 2022

Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 17, barn 39

WORKOUTS
April 7 - 49:74 Breezing 5/17 PBD dirt fast

April 14 - 49.48 Breezing 10/25 PBD dirt fast  VIDEO

Trainer Pletcher said, ““We were looking for a little more from Major Dude and Kingsbarns (than with Forte on this same date). I thought they both went really well, good enthusiasm and energy in their gallop-outs," trainer Pletcher said. Kingsbarns and Major Dude worked in company.

April 20 - 1:00.80   Breezing 11/20 CD dirt fast TODD PLETCHER COMMENTS

In company with Major Dude. According to track clockers, they ran though splits of 12.60, 24.40 and 36.20 and galloped out together through six furlongs in 1:13.40. Irad Ortiz Jr. was aboard Major Dude. Exercise rider Humberto Zamora was in the saddle on Kingsbarns.

Both of them went pretty well. I thought it was a good, steady work with a strong gallop out. Kingsbarns accomplished a lot in a short period of time. I thought his debut was very professional. It’s hard to win going one-mile first time out, and he did it getting an education being behind horses. For his first start I thought that was impressive. We went the Tampa Bay Downs route to get a two-turn allowance race into him. I thought that worked out well. He made a big step forward then in the Louisiana Derby.”

Spendthrift Farm President Eric Gustavson said, “I think people gave Kingsbarns a discount because of the time of the Louisiana Derby. I don’t think you should be penalized by going to the front and putting everyone else to sleep like he did. We’re pretty confident coming into the Derby.

April 29 - 48:40 Breezing 33/149 CD dirt fast VIDEO

TOP RESULTS
1st Louisiana Derby

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE LOUISIANA DERBY

Trainer Todd Pletcher, Kingsbarns (first): "It appeared on paper that there was not a lot of pace, so we drew up a plan with Flavien that if we came away in good order to be placed forward and hopefully dictate the race on our terms. It was a lot to ask to go to a graded stakes going 1 3/16 for the 1st time in his third career start. We gave up a lot of seasoning and he responded in a big way. We'll get him back to Palm Beach Downs and assess but we're planning for him to be one of our ones in the Kentucky Derby.

"It looked like he still had his legs underneath him at the finish and looked like he galloped out well." Pletcher said Kingsbarns might be shipped to Kentucky from Palm Beach Downs a couple of weeks before the Derby.

 Jockey Flavien Prat, Kingsbarns (first): "I talked with Mr. Pletcher and we thought there was not a lot of speed in the race. He told me that the horse was pretty straightforward and if I ended up on the lead he was fine with that. He jumped well, I was able to get myself in a comfortable spot and from there he did the job. Hopefully he moves forward. I thought it was already a great performance and if he moves forward, that's even better."



RAISE CAIN (KY)  50-1  #16
Derby Points: 64
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $232,500
Jockey: Gerardo Corrales
Trainer: Ben Colebrook
Owner: Warren, Andrew N. and Warren, Rania
Breeder: Rock Ridge Thoroughbreds, LLC
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Violence (Medaglia d'Oro, Violent Beauty)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Lemon Belle (Lemon Drop Kid, Queenie Belle)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 5-4-8-3-0 (20) 1.86
Foal Date: April 7, 2020

Auction Price(s)
$180,000 Keeneland September 2020
$65,000 RNA OBS June 2021

Arrival at Churchill Downs: May 1, barn 42

WORKOUTS

April 20, 2023 - 1.03:40 Breezing 11/11 KEE dirt fast  VIDEO

Raise Cain will try to run late in the Derby. His fractions were 13.60, 26.80, 38.60, 51.40, and he galloped out six furlongs in 1:15.80. Trainer Colebrook said, “Nice and easy … finished well and galloped out well. Just what you’re looking for. He started out slow and then finished well.”

April 27 - 49:00 Breezing 13/51 KEE dirt fast  VIDEO
Keeneland's press office did not relay video of the workout, but we found it the next day. Apology for the delay. The breeze was in company with the unraced 3-year-old filly Merrily Rush, who ceded Raise Cain five furlongs, which he made up by the time they reached the wire. Keeneland clockers did not relay internal fractions to the press office, but they had him galloping out five furlongs in 1:02.80.

Trainer Colebrook said, “I just wanted him to have something to run at, a horse five lengths in front of him, because that’s something he’ll be doing in the Derby. It went great. Just what we were looking for. Neither work (referring to April 20 breeze) was real strenuous for him. He’s run enough races that these works are just maintenance, keep the fitness that we have. He’s such a level-headed horse that I felt it was better to keep him here (at Keeneland). We can graze him a couple of hours a day, and he can be in his own stall. If he was nervous or he needed to get acclimated more to Churchill – he’ll have plenty of time over there. We’ll go over there Monday, last minute. He’ll have time to school in the paddock, stand in the gate. We just wanted to keep him home; he does great here. He ran a decent race (in the Toyota Blue Grass), but I think it’s a race he can improve on in the Derby. Pace and a wet track wouldn’t bother me a bit.”

Jockey Gerardo Corrales was aboard for the workout. Colebrook said Corrales “in the mix” to ride the colt in the Derby. It's Colebrooks' first Kentucky Derby horse.

TOP RESULTS
5th Toyota Blue Grass
1st Gotham
5th Leonatus Stakes
2nd Gun Runner

TOYOTA BLUE GRASS
Nothing available

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE GOTHAM STAKES

Trainer Ben Colebrook, Raise Cain (first): “He finally had some pace to run into, and I think that’s what he’s been missing to be honest. He never really had any pace to close into except in his maiden win. I don’t know that it’s necessarily one turn that he needs, but I definitely think pace to close into is what he needs because he’s such a relaxed horse and he can make that one big run like he did today. More credit goes to Jose for the ride. It was just a phenomenal ride.

“He’s bred to go longer and if he were to go on to the Derby, you usually get plenty of pace in there. I think more than anything pace is what he needs. He’s never run a bad race. The first race you can throw out because he’s so lackadaisical and he didn’t know what was going on until after the race. I ran him back after his maiden win going three-quarters [in the Bowman Mill] just because the race was at Keeneland. I probably ran him back too quick and six furlongs might be a little too sharp. But he didn’t run bad that day and the synthetic race was what it was. It just wasn’t the right surface for the horse.

“It’s too early to tell, but we’re nominated to the Blue Grass and we’ll nominate to the Wood Memorial. It’ll probably be one of those two races and we’ll see how it plays out and go to whichever race looks like the best option. You got a race in your own backyard and a race that he’s shipped and won over the track. When you ship, it’s always an unknown and now that we’ve shipped here it’s not an unknown for him. Those are two things to think about. So much changes day to day with 3-year-olds and the division and that stuff. It’s like my old boss Christophe Clement would say, ‘It’s a good problem to have.’"

Jockey Jose Lezcano, Raise Cain (first): “My horse broke very sharp. I let him break running away from there and when I passed the chute, I saw everybody looking and going outside. I crossed outside to inside and my horse did everything so easy. He did whatever I asked him to do. I think the Carlos Olivero horse was in the second path and I tried to go through, but when I tried to go through he came over and I had to check a little bit and go around. My horse did it very easy. He's a very light horse and when I asked him, he got right back into the race.



ROCKET CAN (KY)  30-1  #18
Derby Points: 60
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $284,025
Jockey: Junior Alvarado
Trainer: William I. Mott
Owner: Frank Fletcher Racing Operations, Inc.
Breeder: Woodford Thoroughbreds, LLC
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Into Mischief (Harlan's Holiday, Leslie's Lady)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Tension (Tapit, Tough Tiz's Sis)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 1-4-3-0-0 (8) 4.33
Foal Date: April 28, 2020

Auction Price(s)
$245,000 RNA Fasig-Tipton Saratoga August 2021

Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 5, barn 19

WORKOUTS
April 13 - 46:60 Breezing 1/34 CD dirt fast

Rocket Can galloped out five furlongs in :59.20 and six in 1:12.60.

April 23 - 1:01.00  Breezing 11/41 CD dirt fast  VIDEO

Rocket Can broke off six lengths behind stablemate Game Warden. Rocket Can completed early fractions of 12.20 and 36.60 with regular exercise rider Guelser Cardona in the saddle. He finished even with his stablemate at the wire and galloped out several lengths in front through six furlongs in 1:14.20.

Rocket Can had blinkers added for the move and will for the Derby. Trainer Mott said, “It was a nice steady work. He worked fast last week and I was just looking for a good, steady work this week. He galloped out well and stayed within himself. It maybe was a little bit of a wide trip in the Arkansas Derby. The one thing that race told me is he still has more to give in the tank. I don’t think he’s quite learned to give it his all. That’s what you get this time of year with 3-year-olds but they can improve quickly. He’s got a lot of route pedigree on his bottom side being by Tapit. We added blinkers in today’s work and will for the race. Hopefully, that will help him go past horses when he runs up beside them.”

April 30 - 59.80 Breezing 4/35 CD dirt fast  VIDEO

Trainer Mott said, “He’ll have an easy day tomorrow, then we’ll get him back on a medium exercise program until Derby Day. We just hope that he stays healthy, and in one piece, until Saturday. The one thing we all have to prove is if we can get 10 furlongs. That’s always the question in the Derby, there’s not that many prep races at that mile-and-a-quarter distance (tongue in cheek). When they turn for home in the Derby, that really sorts them out. We hope this horse has the stamina to get the 10 furlongs. We think he has it, he has a pedigree that indicates he should get the distance. You never know if they can do it, until they do it.”

TOP RESULTS
4th Arkansas Derby
2nd Fountain of Youth
1st Holy Bull

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE ARKANSAS DERBY

Trainer Bill Mott, Rocket Can (fourth as the favorite): “Had a pretty good trip. Tick wide, but not bad. Really made it around the first turn pretty good. Had a clear trip. He moved up to third going around the (second turn) and then just couldn't find that other gear that he needed to go on. The winnerwon pretty impressively, the way it looked, and we were very close for second. I think there's a little more there. And Junior (Alvarado) is the same. He gives you the feeling there's a little more there, but he's just not quite giving it all to you yet.”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH STAKES

Trainer Bill Mott, Rocket Can (second) and Shadow Dragon (fifth): “[Rocket Can] ran big. He was a little sharp leaving there. He broke awfully sharp. He was a little geared up in the post parade. He was a little more wound up than I actually like to see him. I was hoping he wouldn’t get too excited, but he still looked like he ran his race. He looked like he held on well. He broke sharp, in good position, was tactical and ran well.”

Jockey Junior Alvarado, Rocket Can (second): “It was a good trip. I ended up where I wanted to be. The only thing was on the backside we were putting a little bit of pressure. From 24 [seconds] the first part we had to speed it up to 23 the second quarter. Normally we do that the other way around, but he was there. Every time I ride him, he’s a different horse in the post parade, a different dimension. We’re trying to figure it out. I just think he hasn’t matured yet. He comes here and he’s very playful. I don’t think he’s put it all together. I take that as a good thing. Hopefully when he puts it together we can gain a few more lengths. He ran an unbelievable race. He was just second-best today.”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE HOLY BULL STAKES

Trainer Bill Mott, Rocket Can (first): “It was a little troubling on the first turn when he was four wide, but obviously it’s a short run to the turn and he had the outside post. He was four wide going into the turn and three wide coming out of it. The good part about all that is you have a clean trip. You’re running farther than anyone else, but he got a nice, clean trip and that’s probably what he needed today. It seems like he’s going to keep going. Hopefully another sixteenth is good and another three-sixteenths is real good. Only time will tell that.”

Jockey Junior Alvarado, Rocket Can (first): “The horse broke sharp and I hustled out of there just to make sure I’m forwardly placed and he was there for me. I couldn’t really save much ground the first part because everybody had the same idea to get out of there running. I ended up being a little bit wide, but he was very kind. He was nice and relaxed the whole way around so I was very pleased with what I had under me. By the three-eighths pole I started picking it up little by little knowing that it’s the first wire. I had a great feeling going all the way around. I know before when he gets head-to-ead with horses he kind of stayed there, so I tried something different to surprise him a little bit and try to get away from there so he doesn’t stay with those horses, and he was there for me. He responded very well. Mr. Mott does an amazing job with all his horses, and he brought this one very ready for me.

“The other horse was coming but I can guarantee you we could have gone two times around the track, and he wouldn’t have gone by me. When he felt that horse coming, he kind of rebroke, even after the wire. I didn’t have a problem. I knew he was ready for a fight if we needed it.”



HIT SHOW (KY)  30-1  #1
Derby Points: 60
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $277,500
Jockey: Manuel Franco
Trainer: Brad H. Cox
Owner: Gary and Mary West
Breeder: Gary & Mary West Stables Inc.
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Candy Ride (ARG), Ride the Rails, Candy Girl (ARG))
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Actress (Tapit, Milwaukee Appeal (CAN))
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 2-5-6-1-0 (14) 2.50
Foal Date: May 9, 2023

Auction Price(s)
None

Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 10, barn 22

WORKOUTS

April 21 - 1:01.00   Breezing 18/33 CD dirt fast VIDEO  BRAD COX COMMENTS

Hit Show breezed in company to the inside of Verifying with an exercise rider up. They got identical times for five furlongs. Trainer Cox said he had them in 1:00.60 and out six in 1:13.80. Clocker John Nichols reported initial splits of 12.60, 24.40 and 48.60. "We weren't looking to do as much with that set as Angel of Empire and Jace's Road (six furlongs)," he said. Cox said the works are designed mainly to maintain fitness. Cox added, “Hit Show just missed in the Wood Memorial. It was a pretty tough beat that day, but he showed us that as the distances get longer he can handle the route of ground as well."

April 29 - 59.60 Breezing 4/54 CD dirt fast  VIDEO
Trainer Cox said, “They were both pretty straightforward moves. We’re one week out from the race and they are important works, but we didn’t want to ask them to do too much. They did it on their own and did what we needed to see going into the Derby."

TOP RESULTS
2nd Wood Memorial
1st Withers Stakes

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE WOOD MEMORIAL

Jockey Manny Franco, Hit Show (second from post 13): "I was right in between those horses [Dreamlike and Lord Miles] like a ping pong ball. They hit me on both sides. I don't know. He was there for me and right between horses. Those bumps, I don't know. I don't think he was comfortable with that."

Does he believe the contact with winner Lord Miles cost him the win? "Yes. Definitely."

THE NEXT DAY: Trainer Cox’s Belmont Park-based assistant Dustin Dugas said, “He came back great this morning. He had some jostling in the first turn and down the stretch, but he battled on well and it was a good race. He ran really well, so I’m happy with him.”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE WITHERS STAKES

Trainer Brad Cox, Hit Show (first): “I just liked the way the Withers was coming up. I thought he fit well with the group. Obviously, he was 6-5, so everybody else thought so, too. It actually worked out well delaying the race a week as we had a little bit of an issue getting [a flight] out of Memphis. We would have made the race last week, but we would have been close on getting there in time.

"(His next race) very well could be the Wood Memorial. He obviously likes the racetrack there and we’ll see how things go.”

Jockey Manny Franco, Hit Show (first): “The horse helped me a lot. He had a clean break. He broke so sharp out of there and put me in a perfect position. I wanted to be fourth or fifth and I was following the right horse [Arctic Arrogance] and I was so happy with the position. When it was time to move, he was there for me. He responded really well and got the job done.

“He’s a little green. He’s learning race by race and I think he’ll be OK. I think the more distance the better for him. I put my hands down [in the gallop out] and I didn’t pull on him. I just let him gallop out and he kept going around. I had to pull him up to make him stop.”



CONFIDENCE GAME (KY)  20-1  #4
Derby Points: 57
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $610,480
Jockey: James Graham
Trainer: J. Keith Desormeaux
Owner: Don't Tell My Wife Stables & Ocean Reef Racing
Breeder: Summer Wind Equine LLC
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Candy Ride (ARG), Ride the Rails, Candy Girl (ARG))
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Eblouissante (Bernardini, Vertigineux)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 2-3-10-1-0 (16) 1.67
Foal Date: April 23, 2020

Auction Price(s)
$25,000 Keeneland September 2021

Arrival at Churchill Downs: on or around March 28, barn 24, stall 2

WORKOUTS
April 8 - 1.00:40 Breezing 5/28 CD dirt fast

April 14 - 1.38:20 Breezing gate 1/1 CD dirt fast

Splits: 24.60, 36.00, 47.80, 1:00.20, 1:13.00 and 1:25.60; out 1 1/4 mile in 2:05.80. Per Churchill Downs he worked in company with two horses in tandem. James Graham was on board for the work.

APRIL 21 HEADS-UP: Seven days after his most recent breeze with with rain forecast tomorrow in Louisville, the next work for Confidence Game "is still to be determined" according to Churchill Downs. The colt is actively training, according to the report.

April 29 - 59:00 Breezing 1/54 CD dirt fast VIDEO

“That beautiful breeze you saw was his last real preparation,” Desormeaux said. “And it was awesome. I heard he galloped out one mile and one-sixteenth in 1:43. He walked back to the barn with steady controlled breathing and he was relaxed cooling out. We just need to keep him happy and limber, school him in the paddock this week, enjoy the process and we’re ready.”

TOP RESULTS
1st Rebel Stakes
3rd Lecomte Stakes
5th Iroquois Stakes

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE REBEL STAKES

Trainer Keith Desormeaux, Confidence Game (first): “I just pick good horses, we don’t worry about the price (laughing). He sort of lost his mind in the paddock, so I was worried until he got on the track. James got him to settle down out there. He’s really come into his own. He started off pretty immature, but as the races went on, he has improved things mentally, and physically.

Jockey James Graham, Confidence Game (first): “I was able to settle him down when we were warming up so he got back in the things mentally. I was really happy with where I was early in the race. He wasn’t doing too much too soon. He had a ton left down the lane. I’m just so happy for everyone involved and especially this horse. He keeps maturing and doing things the right way. I think the sky is the limit for him.”

IROQUOIS, LECOMTE

No post-race quotes available.

VERIFYING (KY)  15-1  #2
Derby Points: 54
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $369,750
Jockey: Tyler Gaffalione
Trainer: Brad H. Cox
Owner: Westerberg, Magnier, Mrs. John, Poulin, Jonathan, Smith, Derrick and Tabor, Michael B.
Breeder: Hunter Valley & Mountmellick Farm, LLC
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Justify (Scat Daddy, Stage Magic)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Diva Delite (Repent, Tour Hostess)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 1-2-3-0-0 (6) 3.00
Foal Date: May 11, 2020

Auction Price(s)
$775,000 September 2021

Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 10, barn 22, stall 34

WORKOUTS

April 21 - 1:01.00 Breezing 18/33 CD dirt fast  VIDEO   BRAD COX COMMENTS

Verifying breezed in company to the outside of Hit Show. They got identical times for five furlongs. Tyler Gaffalione was on board Verifying. Trainer Cox said he had them in 1:00.60 and out six in 1:13.80. Clocker John Nichols reported initial splits of 12.60, 24.40 and 48.60. "We weren't looking to do as much with that set as Angel of Empire and Jace's Road (six furlongs)," Cox said. Cox said the works are designed mainly to maintain fitness. Trainer Cox added, “Verifying, like Hit Show, was a tough beat about an hour before in the Blue Grass. Going back in his career, I don’t’ think he was quite ready when we ran him in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile. He started to mature over the winter and I’m still a little confused on his effort in the Rebel. He was in contention, then dropped back and then rallied in the stretch. He put things together in the Blue Grass and has a lot of tactical speed that should play to his advantage in the Derby.”

April 29 - 59.40 Breezing 2/54 CD dirt fast

Tyler Gafffalione was aboard. Trainer Cox said, “They (Hit Show and Verifying) were both pretty straightforward moves. We’re one week out from the race and they are important works, but we didn’t want to ask them to do too much. They did it on their own and did what we needed to see going into the Derby."

TOP RESULTS
2nd Toyota Blue Grass Stakes
4th Rebel Stakes
6th Breeders' Cup Juvenile
2nd Champagne Stakes

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE TOYOTA BLUE GRASS STAKES

Jockey Tyler Gaffalione, Verifying (second): “He really ran a huge race and tried very hard. (Tapit Trice) kind of came in on me in the stretch, but my horse really tried hard today, especially in the stretch. He dug in and almost got it done.”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE REBEL STAKES

Trainer Brad Cox, 3-2 favorite Verifying (fourth) and 2-1 second choice Giant Mischief (sixth): “We’ll regroup. Obviously, we were hoping for a better result. I think both got something out of it. Kind of set close to a hot pace. I really don’t know what to make of it yet. Need to watch the replay. Obviously, going pretty quick early on. They both bounce out of it in good order, we’ll see what happens.”

Jockey Florent Geroux, Verifying (fourth): “Actually, I liked the beginning, but not the ending. From the quarter pole home, it took me a very long time to find some room and all the horses in front of me, they were just stopping. It took me a long time to find some room. Got through late, but the race was already over.”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING JAN. 15 OAKLAWN ALLOWANCE RACE

Trainer Brad Cox, Verifying (first): “It went better than planned. We’ve always liked this colt. Mentally, I don’t know if he’s always been as polished as some of the other ones, but he’s really starting to, I think, figure it out. I thought it was a huge run off the freshening since the Breeders’ Cup.”

Jockey Martin Garcia, Verifying (first): “That’s a really good horse. Sometimes you break and have intentions to go and then later you take back. It’s hard. In this case, I had intentions to go and the other horse goes, then I sat outside, and moved around him. I asked him one time and he just took off. He just kept going. I knew he had some time off since the Breeders’ Cup. I think he’s a really good horse mentally and, of course, he has a lot of ability. That’s a really, really good horse.”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE CHAMPAGNE STAKES

Trainer Brad Cox, Verifying (second) (speaking in January prior to Oaklawn allowance race): "I thought he ran really well in the Champagne to give us enough confidence out of the Champagne, training at Churchill, to try the Breeders' Cup. He didn't run a bad race, just probably wasn't quite up to par at that time. I'm hoping that now since he got a little time, we backed off him, he's back training, steady work pattern leading into this, and hopeful he takes that step forward from two to three."

SUN THUNDER (KY)  50-1  #13
Derby Points: 54
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $181,500
Jockey: Brian Hernandez, Jr.
Trainer: Kenneth G. McPeek
Owner: R.T Racing Stable and Cypress Creek Equine
Breeder: Southern Equine Stables, LLC
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Into Mischief (Harlan's Holiday, Leslie's Lady)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Greenfield d'Oro (Medaglia d'Oro, Maryfield (CAN))
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 2-3-2-1-0 (8) 3.00
Foal Date: March 12, 2020

Auction Price(s)
$400,000 Fasig-Tipton Kentucky November 2020
$495,000 RNA Fasig-Tipson Saratoga August 2021

Arrival at Churchill Downs: returned April 8 after Blue Grass, barn 6

WORKOUTS
April 26 - 48.60 Breezing 10/40 CD dirt fast  VIDEO

May 2 - Sun Thunder 47:80 Breezing 3/20 CD dirt fast  VIDEO

He breezed four furlongs with blinkers on under Brian Hernandez Jr., who will ride him in the Derby. Trainer McPeek said, “It was just a maintenance half for him. Brian was happy with him. He was going evenly, that’s what we wanted.”

TOP RESULTS
4th Toyota Blue Grass Stakes
5th Louisiana Derby
2nd Risen Star Stakes
4th Southwest Stakes

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE TOYOTA BLUE GRASS STAKES

Jockey Florent Geroux, Sun Thunder (fourth): “I was at the back of the pack and I weaved my way through traffic. We took fourth place, all went great but he was really out of reach from the first two.”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE RISEN STAR STAKES

Trainer Kenny McPeek, Sun Thunder (second) (four days after the Risen Star): “He’s a tough little horse. We started to pigeonhole him a little as a sprinter, but we wanted to give him one more chance to route. He had a tough draw [post 11], and if he’s ever going to be a horse to compete in these big races, he needs to rate. He doesn’t like a lot of dirt hitting him and traffic."

Jockey Brian Hernandez, Jr., Sun Thunder (second): “It worked out great. I wanted to be a little bit more into the race, but they were bunched up and going fast. My plan going out there was to follow the 6 (Angel of Empire). Midway down the backside I found him, tracked him and he got me to the second turn, but then he went around (the field), and with my horse only having four starts I knew I couldn’t go around all those horses and still be in contention. So it worked out well, we rode the fence, rolled the dice and it opened up. But it helped too that the horse was there for me, he was taking me there and cruising the whole way. When we tuned for home and switched leads I was like, he’s gone from here. In just his fourth race to go 1 1/8 miles against a 14-horse field, he’s going to get better and better.”



MAGE (KY)  15-1  #8
Derby Points: 50
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $205,200
Jockey: Javier Castellano
Trainer: Gustavo Delgado
Owner: OGMA Investments, LLC, Restrepo, Ramiro, Sterling Racing LLC and CMNWLTH
Breeder: Grandview Equine
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Good Magic (Curlin, Glinda the Good)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Puca (Big Brown, Boat's Ghost)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 2-4-8-0-0 (14) 2.50
Foal Date: April 18, 2020

Auction Price(s)
$235,000 Keeneland September 2021
$290,000 Fasig-Tipton Mid-Atlantic 2022

Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 24, barn 42

WORKOUTS

April 16 - 1.01:09 Breezing 5/20 GP dirt fast VIDEO

Gustavo Delgado Jr., assistant trainer to his father: “What we usually do after a big race like we had, we try to go nice and easy. That seems to be what he did today. If the weather stays like this here, he may have another work here. It will all depend on how he behaves. We already know what we have.”

April 22 - 1.14.78 Breezing 1/1 GP dirt fast  VIDEO
Assistant trainer Gustavo Delgado Jr. said, “He worked good. We liked what we saw. Everything is going to plan, Thank God. We just want him to get to know the track (in Louisville). We don’t expect to do very much there, fitness-wise. He should be ready after this work. Every day is crucial. We’ll take it day by day, but we like the position we’re in right now." Mage doesn't yet have a jockey assignment for the Derby.

April 29 - 1.16:80 Breezing 1/1 CD dirt fast   VIDEO 
Assistant trainer Gustavo Delgado, Jr. said, “This workout was much like his previous workouts, but it was slower and he covered more ground. That was the plan. And it was mission accomplished, as you might say. We already know that he’s a fast horse, but now we’re training him for stamina. That’s pretty much the plan. The way he was traveling, he gave us a good feeling that he likes the track. (The exercise rider) said he liked everything about it, the track, the work, the way he came back, all are good signs. He’ll walk tomorrow, and Monday he’ll jog and we’ll bring him to the gate. We’ll probably bring him back to the gate either Thursday or Friday. Pretty much the heavy work is done. A talented horse that’s feeling good, it’s all you need for the race. We believe that he’s building the stamina needed for a mile-and-a-quarter.”

TOP RESULTS
2nd Florida Derby
4th Fountain of Youth Stakes

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE FLORIDA DERBY

Assistant trainer Gustavo Delgado Jr., Mage (second): “We expected a better break from the gate. That was key. It happened again; it can’t happen in a race like the Derby. Other than that, what else can you ask? Good thing is Saez didn’t panic, so he didn’t force him. He let him get his stride. He made a move, and I thought he was getting home. He might have gotten tired but, remember, it’s still his third race. How many races did it take Forte to get to the level he is?”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH STAKES

Assistant trainer Gustavo Delgado Jr., Mage (fourth): “We knew that it was a big task for him. The only thing that we’d change is the fact that he didn’t break very well from the gate. That always gives an advantage to the other horses. It’s just his second race. There’s nothing wrong about him. The main thing is he comes back good and we’ll decide what we’re going to do. We know we have a nice horse.”

Jockey Javier Castellano, Mage (fourth): “He didn’t break the first jump but we had a mle and a sixteenth to run. He got a good position. In the first turn he was a little wide but then on the backside he was right there behind those three horses going a good pace. The only horse that come from behind is Forte, the best horse in the country, by far. He came from behind and blew away the field. But if you analyze the race, all the first three horses that dictate the pace they were 2-3-4. I liked the way he ran. I’m not disappointed at all. It’s only his second start. It’s a big thing, first time two turns, no Lasix, a big step up in class. All the horses had run four, five, six times. He finished fourth. We confronted the best horses in the country and he’s going to move forward.”

DISARM (KY)  30-1  #11
Derby Points: 46
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $237,500
Jockey: Joel Rosario
Trainer: Steven M. Asmussen
Owner: Winchell Thoroughbreds LLC
Breeder: Winchell Thoroughbreds LLC
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Gun Runner (Candy Ride (ARG), Quiet Giant)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Easy Tap (Tapit, Easily)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 1-4-7-0-0 (12) 2.43
Foal Date: Feb. 28, 2020

Auction Price(s)
None

Arrival at Churchill Downs: March 28, barn 38, stall 21

WORKOUTS
April 3 - 50:60 Breezing 18/18 CD dirt fast
April 10 - 50:20 Breezing 8/11 CD dirt fast

April 24 - 1:00.00 Breezing 1/18 CD dirt fast  VIDEO  JOEL ROSARIO VIDEO  STEVE ASMUSSEN VIDEO

Disarm ran initial fractions of 13.20, 25.40, 36.60 and 48.40. He galloped out six furlongs in 1:13.20  and seven in 1:26.60 according to Churchill Downs clocker John Nichols and the morning works show.

Jockey Rosario said, “I thought he worked really well this morning coming out of the Lexington. He was well within himself the entire work. He looks a lot like his sire (Gun Runner). He’s built bigger than he (Disarm) is but looking at him they have a lot of the same traits.”

Trainer Asmussen said, “He’s a very durable horse and I think the best is yet to come from him. He’s a horse we missed a little time with over the winter and we’re behind schedule. The one opportunity for a points race was the Louisiana Derby. He ran solid but needed more points to get in it. He’s a horse we definitely didn’t want to miss this opportunity with. We were looking for a little sense of direction in his work this morning. I think he’s not given us everything to this point and there’s more in the tank. I like how he accelerated to the wire and got over the racetrack nicely.”

May 1- 49.20 Breezing 15/30 CD dirt fast  VIDEO

Any available quotes will be added later today.

TOP RESULTS
2nd Louisiana Derby

3rd Lexington Stakes

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE LOUISIANA DERBY

Jockey Joel Rosario, Disarm (second): "He seems like he could be a special horse. We got a good trip. I was inside, in behind. That horse (Kingsbarns) went on with it. He has to keep improving, but he did everything right today."

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE STONESTREET LEXINGTON STAKES

Owner Ron Winchell, Disarm (third): “It looks like he got enough points to go, so we have the option to go. We’ll see how he comes out of this race. We’ve always thought a mile and a quarter would be fine for him.”

 
Jockey Jose Ortiz, Disarm (third): “I was squeezed a little leaving the gate. Ended up a little farther back than I wanted to. After that, it was a pretty good trip. I was just third best. The pace wasn’t there. It was :48.”

REINCARNATE (KY)  50-1  #7
Derby Points: 45
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $263,250
Jockey: John Velazquez
Trainer: Tim Yakteen
Owner: SF Racing LLC, Starlight Racing, Madaket Stables LLC, Masterson, Robert E., Stonestreet Stables LLC, Schoenfarber, Jay A., Waves Edge Capital LLC and Donovan, Catherine
Breeder: Woods Edge Farm, LLC
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Good Magic (Curlin, Glinda the Good)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Allanah (Scat Daddy, Star in the Corner)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 2-3-5-0-0 (10) 3.00
Foal Date: April 1, 2020

Auction Price(s)
$775,000 Keeneland September 2021

Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 29, barn 27

WORKOUTS

April 16 - 1:00.00 Handily 12/99 SA dirt fast  VIDEO
April 22 - 1.01:00 Handily 7/16 SA dirt fast  VIDEO

Trainer Yakteen said, “He worked great. Looked really good this morning."

April 28 - 46:40 Handily 1/31 SA dirt fast  VIDEO

Trainer Yakteen said, “Reincarnate went great. He had some outside company and looked really nice. Knock on wood, but we should be all set.”

TOP RESULTS
3rd Arkansas Derby
3rd Rebel Stakes
1st Sham Stakes

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE ARKANSAS DERBY

Trainer Tim Yakteen, Reincarnate (third): “He ran hard. Johnny had to use him to get in a good position, and I thought he ran very genuine. Hopefully we can improve off of that. Our next game plan still hasn’t been determined yet. He’s come out of his race so far in good shape. We’ll take it from there and get him back to California. We’ve got five weeks to decide what we want to do.”

Jockey John Velazquez, Reincarnate (third): "I thought we had a great trip, but he didn’t seem to have it today."

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE REBEL STAKES

Trainer Tim Yakteen, Reincarnate (third): “He ran giant. The race didn’t come out the way we had scripted it. That happens in racing, but my horse ran huge.”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE SHAM STAKES

Former trainer Bob Baffert, Reincarnate (first): “He’s the kind of horse that can run all day long. He broke great and Juan just kind of let him run away from there. They were all on their own, I didn’t give anybody any instructions. After looking at that time, that was serious time, they ran really fast. We were hoping to win it. I think the horse showed that distance is not going to be a problem for him once he got the lead. I was surprised he had that easy lead and he just kept going.”

Jockey Juan Hernandez, Reincarnate (first): “It looks like this horse is getting better with every race, the first couple of starts, he was a little green. He always liked to look around. Today, he broke really sharp and actually he surprised me. I had come up with a plan to stay behind the speed, make him relax and make one move, but when the gate opened, plans changed. I saw myself in front, so I just let him run. I felt the fractions were like a hard pace, but he was really comfortable. He’s a really big horse, he has a big stride.

"Around the three eighths, when the other horse came to me, my horse responded back and he hit the wire first. He kind of waited for the other horses, but he’s still learning how to run. When he got the lead, he tried to wait for the company, but when he saw the other horse come to me, he saw him and fought back. He can go as far as you want. He’s a big horse so, I think he can go further than this. He already showed up today.”

JACE'S ROAD (KY)  50-1  #12
Derby Points: 45
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $200,350
Jockey: Florent Geroux
Trainer: Brad H. Cox
Owner: West Point Thoroughbreds and Albaugh Family Stables LLC
Breeder: Colts Neck Stables LLC
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Quality Road (Elusive Quality, Kobla)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Our Post (Silver Deputy (CAN), Secret Wildcat
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 2-2-6-0-0 (10) 2.33
Foal Date: April 25, 2020

Auction Price(s)
$510,000 Keeneland September 2021

Arrival at Churchill Downs: March 28, barn 22

WORKOUTS
April 8 - 49:60 Breezing 50/66 CD dirt fast

April 15 - 48:20 Breezing 20/99 CD dirt fast

Jace's Road worked outside Victory Formation (also timed in 48.20). Fractions for the workout were not made available by Churchill Downs.

April 21 - 1.13:40 Breezing 1/2 CD dirt fast VIDEO BRAD COX COMMENTS
Trainer Cox said Jace's Road could run in the Pat Day Mile or the Peter Pan or maybe some other races if he doesn't make the Derby field. Cox mentioned the Derby also-eligible list will likely draw Jace's Road if a spot hasn't opened up by May 1, when entries close. He said they were looking to do more with Angel of Empire and Jace's Road working in company (six furlongs) than the set of Hit Show and Verifying (five furlongs). Trainer Cox added, “Jace’s Road is sitting on the outside looking in but worked well this morning with Angel of Empire. I thought they handled themselves well and galloped out strongly." Angel of Empire and Jace's Road broke off at the 5/8 mile pole and worked past the wire to mid-turn, six furlongs on his watch in 1:13.20, and out seven in 1:26.40. Cox said the works are designed mainly to maintain fitness. According to track clocker John Nichols, their initial fractions were 12.20, 23.80, 35.60 and 1:00.40, and they galloped out seven furlongs in 1:26.40.

Jace's Road April 29 - 1.01:20 Breezing 21/54 CD dirt fast (official clocking)  VIDEO

TOP RESULTS
3rd Louisiana Derby
5th Southwest Stakes
1st Gun Runner Stakes
8th Street Sense Stakes
3rd Iroquois Stakes

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE LOUISIANA DERBY

Trainer Brad Cox, Jace's Road (third): "I'm a little frustrated. Lack of pace in the race. It's not going to happen like that in the Kentucky Derby.

Jockey Florent Geroux, Jace’s Road (third): "We got the points. He ran great actually. I wished we could have pressed the winner more, but he never really took me. I took a shot at him right before the first turn, but Flavien just opened his hands and his horse was in front of me again. I felt like he just wasn't there for me. I thought I could maybe make the lead, but if I sent him really hard, I don't know that he would have had any finish. I was very content with my position. He ran great down the lane. It doesn't look like distance is going to be a problem."

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE GUN RUNNER STAKES

Trainer Brad Cox, Jace's Road (first): "Believe it or not this wasn't really the goal after his last race at Churchill," trainer Brad Cox said, referring to Jace's Road's eighth-place finish in the Street Sense. "We kinda gave him some time off after that and then we came down here with him and he really put together a couple of nice works which told us he was ready to go."

Jockey Florent Geroux, Jace's Road (first): "He broke super sharp. On paper it didn't seem there was much speed so I thought if my horse won the break then I would take it from there."

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE STREET SENSE STAKES

Jockey Florent Geroux, Jace’s Road (eighth as 2-1 favorite): “I thought I had him in the perfect spot, and really at the five-eighths pole I didn’t have any horse.”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE IROQUOIS STAKES

Jockey Florent Geroux, Jace's Road (third): “I saw the speed duel developing in front of me, so I wanted to take my horse back from the leaders so he didn’t get too aggressive too early. On the backside I got him in a better spot and the leaders sort of got away from me around the turn. When I tipped him out in the stretch he came running again. It was his first time going two turns, so I think this race is going to be really key for him moving forward with his fitness. He’s still young and learning.”

SKINNER (KY)  20-1  #9   SCRATCHED 
Derby Points: 45
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $174,500
Jockey: Juan Hernandez
Trainer: John A. Shirreffs
Owner: C R K Stable LLC
Breeder: Stonestreet Thoroughbred Holdings LLC
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Curlin (Smart Strike (CAN), Sherriffs Deputy)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Winding Way (Malibu Moon, More Than Pretty)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 6-6-10-0-0 (22) 3.40
Foal Date: Feb. 18, 2020

Auction Price(s)
$40,000 Keeneland September 2021
$510,000 OBS April 2022

Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 30, barn 41

WORKOUTS

April 17 - 48:00 Handily 19/70 SA dirt fast

April 23 - 1:13.40 Handily 1/3 SA dirt fast VIDEO

Under Victor Espinoza, Skinner went solo and broke off at the six-furlong pole. Trainer Shirreffs said, “Victor worked him perfect. He went the first furlong in 13 seconds and change and gradually picked it up at every pole. I got him the last eighth of a mile in 11 seconds. Could have been 11 and a tick. He finished full of run. (As for the Derby) if we’re not in, why would we go? It’s a tough decision to make to go all the way there and then not get in. We’ll keep Skinner on his schedule. If we hear something early enough, we’d go. But if we don’t, I don’t know. I’ve been there before sitting on the outside and didn’t get to run.”

April 29 - 1.14:00 Handily 3/3 SA dirt fast   VIDEO

Trainer Shirreffs said, “I was very happy with how he worked. We wanted another work like last week. We wanted to start off easy and finish strong with a good gallop-out. Keep him thinking about finishing. Juan (Hernandez) said he thought the horse was very professional and did everything right. He finished up his last eighth in 11 and 2."

TOP RESULTS
3rd Santa Anita Derby
3rd San Felipe Stakes
3rd Del Mar Futurity

JOCKEY SHAKEUP

Juan Hernandez replaces Victor Espinoza. "We thought a change would maybe shake things up a little bit," trainer John Shirreffs told DRF's Steve Andersen. "Maybe Skinner was used to the way Victor was riding him. It might help to have a different rider."

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING SANTA ANITA DERBY

Trainer John Shirreffs, Skinner (third): “He was a little bit wide, he didn’t get a chance to cut a corner anywhere, which would have helped."

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE SAN FELIPE STAKES

Jockey Victor Espinoza, Skinner (third): “I thought he ran an excellent race." Espinoza said he would have liked "to be closer to the lead.” Skinner was about six lengths off the pace after the opening quarter-mile.


CONTINUAR (JPN)  50-1  #20 - SCRATCHED
Derby Points: 40 on Japan Road
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings:
Jockey: Ryusel Sakai
Trainer: Yoshito Yahagi
Owner: Lion Race Horse Co. Ltd.
Breeder: Lake Villa Farm
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Drefong (Gio Ponti, Eltimaas)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Pan de Ring (JPN) (King Kamehameha (JPN), Fusaichi Pandora (JPN))
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 2-1-9-2-0 (14) 1.15
Foal Date: March 7, 2020

Auction Price(s)
$635,432 JHRA Yearling and Foal Sale 2021

Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 8, barn Q1

WORKOUTS

April 26 - 50:00 Breezing 30/40 CD dirt fast  VIDEO
The work was in company with Derma Sotogake and ended at the finish line. Both broke off from the four-furlong marker. His splits were 13.80, 26.40, 38.20, 50.00. Internal fractions were 13.80, 12.60, 11.80, 11.80.  Kate Hunter, the Japan Racing Association representative for the Kentucky Derby, said that both riders were happy with the works, with Derma Sotogake's rider pleased with the response in the stretch. Breaking off at the half-mile pole, Continuar was three lengths in front. By the head of the stretch, Derma Sotogake had drawn even and was clear at the wire.

TOP RESULTS
3rd UAE Derby
5th Saudi Derby
1st Cattleya Sho Stakes
2nd Mochinoki Sho Stakes



CYCLONE MISCHIEF (KY)  30-1  #21
Derby Points: 45
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $137,525
Jockey: Joel Rosario
Trainer: Dale L. Romans
Owner: Albaugh Family Stables LLC and Castleton Lyons
Breeder: Castleton Lyons & Kilboy Estate
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Into Mischief (Harlan's Holiday, Leslie's Lady)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Areyoucominghere (Bernardini, Uchitel)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 1-2-3-0-0 (6) 3.00
Foal Date: April 30, 2020

Auction Price(s)
$450,000 Keeneland September 2021

Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 3, barn 4

WORKOUTS

April 15 - 52.60 Breezing 99/99 CD dirt fast

April 23 - 1:01.00   Breezing 11/41 CD dirt fast  VIDEO
Cyclone Mischief ran initial fractions of 12.20, 24.20 and 36.20. He galloped out six furlongs in 1:14.00, according to Churchill Downs clocker John Nichols. Trainer Romans said, “I hope we can get him in the Derby. I thought he worked great this morning.”

April 29 - 1.00:80 Breezing 16/54 CD dirt fast  VIDEO UNAVAILABLE

Trainer Romans said, “He looked really good, now all we can do is wait and see. He’s been training great. If he gets in, they’ll know he’s in there.”

APRIL 29 NOTE: Cyclone Mischief worked solo with fractions of 12.00, 23.40, 36.00 and out six in 1:14.60. The work was uneventful. He needs one defection to make the Kentucky Derby. A slow out time as measured by the clockers, but he would be a pace factor in the Derby.

TOP RESULTS
3rd Florida Derby
3rd Fountain of Youth Stakes
7th Holy Bull Stakes
7th Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE FLORIDA DERBY

Trainer Dale Romans, Cyclone Mischief (third): “I thought he ran a beautiful race. I thought he put himself where he needed to be, I thought Javier rode him well. I think it’s on to Churchill. I thought today he looked like he handled [the distance] fine. The pace scenario might be a little different going longer. It might even be better for him.”

Jockey Javier Castellano, Cyclone Mischief (third): “He ran really good. I had a little bit of a wide trip, but there’s nothing you can do with the nine hole. I couldn’t save any ground but I liked the way he did it. He fight all the way to the top of the stretch. I think he was just third-best today. He got a good foundation and hopefully it will pay off.”

THE NEXT DAY: Trainer Romans said, “He looks good. We look forward to the Derby. His last couple races have been good and he keeps improving, so we’ll have him back in there.”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH STAKES

Trainer Dale Romans, Cyclone Mischief (third): “It’s a relief to see him run hard like he did. He tried all the way. He did all the work. I’m very pleased with him. It’s a step forward. We’ll go to the next one. I told [jockey Tyler Gaffalione] to just let him go wherever he wanted. He’s a quick horse. He ran well today. Big improvement.”

Jockey Tyler Gaffalione, Cyclone Mischief (third): “Last time I felt like to took too much away from him so today we had a little better post position and I wanted to be more forward. He broke like a rocket. He traveled great throughout and his ears were going back and forth down the backside. We just couldn’t match the winner today, but it was a big effort. It’s only his second start back off the layoff so he definitely has room to improve. We’ll see what happens down the road.”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE HOLY BULL STAKES

Trainer Dale Romans, Cyclone Mischief (seventh): “I don’t know what happened. He didn’t have a very good trip. He broke well, but then he was kind of in a bunch and obviously when it came time to run, he came up empty.”

Jockey Tyler Gaffalione, Cyclone Mischief (seventh): “At the quarter pole he started making a little bit of noise and he switched to his off lead, and that was it. But he pulled up fine we’ll see what we’ve got next time.”

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE KENTUCKY JOCKEY CLUB STAKES

No applicable quotes are available. Cyclone Mischief (seventh) is the only horse that ran in the Kentucky Jockey Club with a good chance to make the field of the Kentucky Derby. Instant Coffee (the winner) looks very unlikely.

MANDARIN HERO (JPN)  20-1  #22
Derby Points: 40
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $339,041
Jockey: Kazushi Kimura
Trainer: Terunobu Fujita
Owner: Hiroaki Arai
Breeder: Hirano Bokujo
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Shanghai Bobby (Harlan's Holiday, Steelin')
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Namura Nadeshinko (JPN) (Fuji Kiseki (JPN), Taiki Mystery)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 2-1-1-0-2 (6) 1.40
Foal Date: March 20, 2020

Auction Price(s)
None

Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 27, barn Q1

WORKOUTS

April 26 - Mandarin Hero 1.04:60 Handily 9/10 SA dirt fast

May 2 - Mandarin Hero (JPN) (AE) 1.05:60 Breezing 15/15 CD dirt fast
Connections comments are not available. Initial fractions were 13.80 and 38.00.

TOP RESULTS
2nd Santa Anita Derby
2nd Kumotori Sho
1st Haiseiko Kinen

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE SANTA ANITA DERBY

Trainer Terunobu Fujita, Mandarin Hero (second): “We’re going to the Kentucky Derby! I’m so proud of him. I thought he would not handle the early pace, but he did. I believed he would have a good acceleration in the final stretch as usual. And he did it. Kazushi Kimura gave a really good ride. He made him accelerate at the final stretch. I thought he was going to win. I’m just so excited right now.”

Jockey Kazushi Kimura, Mandarin Hero (second): “I thought we got him (Practical Move) at the wire. I was on this horse since he got here and he was very comfortable. Today he was a totally different horse. He was very aggressive in company.  It looks like we’ll be headed to the Kentucky Derby. I’ve never been in the race, so I’m really looking forward to this opportunity.”



KING RUSSELL (KY)  50-1  #23
Derby Points: 40
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $227,500
Jockey: Rafael Bejarano
Trainer: Ron Moquett
Owner: Jones, Brereton C. and Naber Racing, LLC
Breeder: Brereton C. Jones
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Creative Cause (Giant's Causeway Dream of Summer)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Believe You Will (Proud Citizen, El Fasto)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 4-4-13-1-0 (22) 1.93
Foal Date: Feb. 8, 2020

Auction Price(s)
$60,000 Fasig-Tipton Kentucky October 2021

Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 4, barn 10

WORKOUTS

April 16 - 1:03.20 Breezing 16/18 CD dirt fast

April 29 - 47.80 Breezing 10/149 CD dirt fast

TOP RESULTS
2nd Arkansas Derby

CONNECTIONS QUOTES FOLLOWING THE ARKANSAS DERBY

Trainer Ron Moquett, King Russell (second): “That would be cool (going to the Kentucky Derby), but we've always wanted to try to win this race. So, if we've got a good shot, we're going to take a swing at it. (Rafael Bejarano) rode great. Beautiful horse. He's just improving. We know how tough these races are here. As we see when people ship out, they go and run well in stakes races across the country. So, we're proud of the way we represented today.”

Jockey Rafael Bejarano, King Russell (second): “There were tough horses in this race. I was mainly concerned about the 7 (Rocket Can) and the 6 (Angel of Empire). If they had a good trip, they were going to come flying and keep running. But I said my horse, he comes from behind. He loves this track. Every time he was running better and better. I just left him alone, let him break good and make sure he had a good trip and find my position. At the half-mile, when I saw the 6 moving outside me, I said, ‘Now I have to follow this horse.’ Because he looked like he was running. I was in a great spot. Got out in the clear. The horse had a full turn of foot and was running good. I was really happy, especially for the trainer.”