Profiles of
Kentucky Derby Contenders
Facts, Figures, Connections,
Quotes and More
By Dick Downey
Race recaps and quotes are for nine-furlong-and-longer races, plus the Lexington
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BARBER ROAD (KY) POST 14 ML 30-1
Derby Points: 58
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $589,700
Jockey: Reylu Gutierrez
Trainer: John Alexander Ortiz
Owner: WSS Racing LLC (William Simon)
Breeder: Susan Forrester & Judy Curry
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Race Day (Tapit, Rebalite)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Encounter (Southern Image, Copeaway)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 3-4-5-0-0 (12) 3.80
Foal Date: March 8, 2019
Auction Price(s): $15,000 Keeneland November 2019
Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 16. Barn 46.
April 2, Arkansas Derby, Oaklawn Park, 1 1/8 Mile. Cyberknife was all business in the race, tracking early pacesetter Kavod from fourth through fractions of 22.11 and 46.53 for the first half mile. He took command around the final turn and drew off to win by 2 3/4 lengths over the ultra-consistent Barber Road, who placed in all four of Oaklawn’s Kentucky Derby points races. The filly Secret Oath, the 7-5 favorite, was third after running last early and mounting a challenge that flattened out in the stretch. California shipper Doppleganger was fourth after a tough trip and was followed by Kavod, Ben Diesel, We The People, Un Ojo and Chasing Time.
QUOTES
John Ortiz: “Winning effort once again. The distance proved to be the right angle that we're looking for. Obviously, we still might need a little bit more. I think we secured a spot for the Kentucky Derby starting gate. Reylu (Gutierrez) did a fantastic job. Once again, we've still got to work out our traffic situation, but the horse has got guts. You know what, you've got to run through traffic in the Kentucky Derby and you need a horse that's got guts. I think we've got the right thing and I've got the rider for it.”
Reylu Gutierrez: “Well, you've got to give credit to (trainer) Brad Cox. He knew this horse, Cyberknife, was a proper horse the whole time, so you've got to give credit to Brad and his thinking. But for my horse, what a race. Had traffic again. We know the game plan's to get outside, get him out in the clear, out of trouble. It doesn't work out like that sometimes, but I saved ground both turns and I think that helped us finish at the end the way we did. I'm really excited for a mile and a quarter, man. I'm really excited about it. Not many horses go a mile and a quarter, but mine can. It was awesome.”
THE NEXT DAY: John Ortiz: “Right now, we don’t have any plans of moving him (yet). He sprung a shoe, so we’re going to get that fixed first and address that. He got banged around there down the stretch, but he’s just a tough little horse.” Ortiz said he will have a 20-horse string at Churchill Downs this spring.
April 13 NOTE: Expected at Churchill Downs this week, and will breeze there up to the Derby, per DRF.
April 22 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
1.16:40 Breezing 4/4
April 22 NOTE: Barber Road worked solo with jockey Reylu Gutierrez in the saddle. The son of Race Day easily galloped through opening splits of 13.60, 26.60, 39.60 and 51.80. He completed his seven-furlong gallop out in 1:29 (less than 13 seconds after the official workout ended), so this workout could have been deceptively good.
April 26 NOTE: Trainer Ortiz has been training six years. Today he said, “This is a dream come true to even be here and participating in the Derby."
April 27 NOTE: Barber Road galloped about 1 1/2 miles at 6:30 a.m. Trainer Ortiz said, “I’m certainly not going to change his running style going into the Derby. He was on the lead when he broke his maiden, which gave him a lot of confidence since it was a claiming race. I think if he could be about mid-pack in the Derby it would be the ideal position.”
April 29 NOTE: Barber Road will work Saturday.
Barber Road
April 30 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
VIDEO
April 30 NOTE:
Barber Road breezed four furlongs in 48.80 going solo under exercise rider Elexander Aguilar.. His gallop-out was timed in a slow 1:02.40. Trainer Ortiz said, “We’re ready. We’ve had a really strong campaign leading into the Derby and he has a lot of good seasoning underneath him. We know we have a fit horse and will be ready for the mile and a quarter."
POST POSITION DRAW: Trainer John Oritz: “I’m very happy with the post. I don’t feel like I have any pressure on me. Barber Road and (jockey) Reylu (Gutierrez) have to do all the running. I think being out towards the middle of the racetrack gives us a good chance to see how the race shapes up going into the first turn. From there, we just have to navigate through traffic and Barber Road and Reylu have to do their job.”
May 7, Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs, 1 1/4 Mile.
Barber Road finished sixth, beaten 4 3/4 lengths, after sitting in last place the first time under the wire.
QUOTES
John Ortiz: “We still need more ground. I always thought he was a Belmont horse. We knew we had to go wide. Traffic is what we had to avoid. It was awesome. I love the effort. I love what Reylu did. I couldn’t be happier right now.”
Rey Gutierrez: “He ran well. We saved ground the first turn and took a chance on the final turn by going really wide. I was hoping it would help him get there, but it didn’t give us the result we wanted.”
CHARGE IT (KY) POST 8 ML 20-1
Derby Points: 40
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $188,000
Jockey: Luis Saez
Trainer: Todd A. Pletcher
Owner: Whisper Hill Farm, LLC
Breeder: Whisper Hill Farm, LLC
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Tapit (Pulpit, Tap Your Heels)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): I'll Take Charge (Indian Charlie, Take Charge Lady)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 4-9-10-1-0 (24) 3.00
Foal Date: April 3, 2019
Auction Price(s): NA
Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 17. Barn 35.
April 2, Florida Derby, Gulfstream Park, 1 1/8 Mile.
White Abarrio punched his ticket for Louisville when he laid off a fast early pace, took the lead in the stretch and held off Charge It by 1 3/4 length to win. As the 5-2 second betting choice, he fought off a strong challenge by Todd Pletcher-trained Charge It by 1 3/4 lengths. Simplification, the 2-1 favorite who finished second in the Holy Bull and won the Fountain of Youth, took the lead leaving the backstretch but was unable to withstand the bids by White Abarrio and Charge It, finishing third, a length behind Charge It and 3 /12 lengths ahead of Pappacap, who briefly led running into the far turn. White Abarrio was timed in 1:50.64 to win his fourth race in four starts at Gulfstream.
Meanwhile, White Abarrio rated in fifth under Tyler Gaffalione behind pacesetter Classic Causeway around the first turn and into the backstretch. Classic Causeway suddenly dropped back out of contention midway through the backstretch, where Simplistic took a brief lead with Pappacap applying heavy pressure. Simplistic took the lead into the stretch under Jose Ortiz, only to be passed by White Abarrio, who made a three-wide sweep on the turn into the stretch. Charge It saved ground into the stretch before making a determined run, only to fall short under Luis Saez.
QUOTES
Todd Pletcher: “Super pleased with the effort. To get a real education in a race like that was very encouraging. He got a little green down the lane. He kind of drifted in behind [White Abarrio] and felt like if he could have just run straight that last 100 yards, he was going to be right there. But I thought it was a huge effort, considering everything. Overcame some adversity, took some dirt, and did a lot of things right. Just didn't quite polish it off. It kind of took him a little while to get his wheels going, but once he straightened away it looked like he was going to punch on. But then he drifted in, and he had to correct. The inexperience hurt him a little in the end. I think he earned enough points and showed he's good enough now. Just got to see how he comes out of it and come up with a plan.”
Luis Saez: “He got a god trip. We know they have a lot of speed in the race. He broke from there and he got a lot of dirt in the face. He was comfortable with that and when we came to the three-eighths [pole] I thought we were in a perfect spot. I thought we were going to win the race, but he was a little bit green. He came to the top of the stretch, I hit him on the right and he went in. He got behind the winner and he was coming again, but then he went out. He was a little bit everywhere at the top of the stretch, but, man, he has so much talent. I think he got a good education from this race. He’s going to be a nice horse.”
THE NEXT DAY: Todd Pletcher: “To get a real education in a race like that was very encouraging. He got a little green down the lane. He kind of drifted in behind that horse and felt like if he could have just run straight that last 100 yards, he was going to be right there. But I thought it was a huge effort, considering everything. Pletcher said the Kentucky Derby will be considered after seeing how Charge It comes out of the Florida Derby.
April 15, 2022 PALM BEACH DOWNS Fast
47:77 Breezing 1/11
April 16 NOTE: Trainer Pletcher said, “He worked super. He was straight as an arrow and changed leads right on cue this morning. A couple of more breezes like that should have him a lot more professional when he runs in the Derby.” Per DRF, Pletcher said he timed Charge It in 24.60 and galloping out five-eighths in 1:00.60.
April 22, 2022 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
1.00:40 Breezing 10/47
April 22 NOTE:
Charge It went in company outside Cezanne through fractions of 12, 25.40 and 37.60. They galloped out six furlongs in 1:12.80 and seven furlongs in 1:25 before Charge It completed his move with a one-mile time of 1:38.60.
Trainer Pletcher said, “With Charge It, we were looking for a good, solid breeze. He went a minute and four-fifths with a super big gallop out. We were really happy with that."
April 27 NOTE: Trainer Pletcher said, “The forecast looks a little dicey for the weekend. If the forecast looks favorable, I’d work the (Oaks) fillies Friday and the colts Saturday. I am prepared to move up a day or back a day with either of them."
April 28 NOTE: Trainer Pletcher plans to work Charge It Saturday morning but overnight rain Friday is in the forecast. “We are monitoring the weather,” he said.
April 29 NOTE:
Luis Saez will be aboard for Saturday's breeze.
April 30 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
47.40 Breezing 9/130
April 30 NOTE: Charge It, with Luis Saez up, breezed inside of Pioneer of Medina. Charge It was a little better on the gallop-out. Track clockers caught them in 12.20, 23.60, 35.80 and 47.40, with the indication being they were out five furlongs in 59.60 and six in 112.40. Pioneer of Medina still needs a defection to make the Derby field. During the move, the backside siren activated for a loose horse in a gap. The riders persevered through the gallop-out of this all-important breeze.
Trainer Pletcher said, “It was a solid move. I got them in :23 and one for the last quarter. I was in touch with them on the radio and we had that scary moment when the siren went off (a workmate of an Oaks horse on the track lost the rider) just as they were at the wire so I alerted them. But I saw they picked up the loose horse right away and I was able to let them know about that, too.”
POST POSITION DRAW: Trainer Todd Pletcher: I’m happy with (his post).
May 7, Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs, 1 1/4 Mile.
Charge It finished 17th, beaten 28 lengths, after running within four lengths of the lead through the far turn.
QUOTES
Todd Pletcher: "Charge It got in a good spot, he came under a drive at the three-eighths pole, but that was it."
Luis Saez: “He ran good. He’s still a baby. He broke pretty nice and when we came to the top of the stretch, the other horses were too good.”
CLASSIC CAUSEWAY (KY) POST 17 ML 30-1
Derby Points: 66
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $466,100
Jockey: Julien Leparoux
Trainer: Brian Lynch
Owner: Kentucky West Racing LLC and Clarke M. Cooper
Breeder: Kentucky West Racing LLC & Clarke M. Cooper Family Living Trust
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Giant's Causeway (Storm Cat, Mariah's Storm)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Private World (Thunder Gulch, Rita Rucker)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 3-2-23-0-0 (28) 1.43
Foal Date: Feb. 22, 2019
Auction Price(s): NA
Arrival at Churchill Downs: Prior to April 16. Barn 40.
April 2, Florida Derby, Gulfstream Park, 1 1/8 Mile.
Classic Causeway set a contested pace around the first turn and into the backstretch. He suddenly dropped back out of contention midway through the backstretch and finished last.
Brian Lynch: “(Irad) said he thought he was traveling until about halfway down the backside and then he just sort of ran out of horse. So, we’ll do a little investigating but he looks sound and he said he felt good. We’ll regroup.”
THE NEXT DAY: Brian Lynch: “Everything seems good. He scoped good and came back good this morning. It’s a bit of a headscratcher. We’ll digest it and go on from there. Everything is up in the air now. We’ll let the dust settle and we’ll make a decision (about race plans) in a few days."
April 10 NOTE:
Classic Causeway definitely out of Kentucky consideration.
April 16 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
48.80 Breezeing 21/74
April 23 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
1.00:80 Breezing 22/70
April 25 NOTE:
That didn't take long. Classic Causeway is back in consideration for the Kentucky Derby, according to the Churchill Downs Racing Office.
April 26 NOTE: Classic Causeway's connections have committed him to run in the Kentucky Derby. Trainer Lynch said, “My owners have about 160 years, combined, and who am I to hold them back on running in the Derby. You go back to his races at Tampa, and he fits right in with this field. I think he can have an advantage on the pace.” Julien Leparoux will have the mount.
April 27 NOTE: Classic Causeway had a 1 1/2-mile gallop Wednesday morning under regular exercise rider Calamity Compton. Classic Causeway would be the first Derby starter for trainer Lynch, a native of Australia. After moving to the U. S. nearly 30 years ago, he competed on the rodeo circuit riding bulls. In Australia, Lynch worked around horses and eventually bought horses on his own. Lynch said, “It’s really exciting for my owners and for us as a barn to have a horse like this. We won some pretty big races in the Breeders’ Cup and Queen’s Plate, but you could say it would be a dream come true to win the Kentucky Derby.”
April 28 NOTE: Classic Causeway is scheduled to work Saturday, reportedly at six furlongs. Julien Leparoux was on hand today to watch his Derby mount gallop.
April 29 NOTE: Julien Leparoux will be aboard for Saturday's breeze.
April 30 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
1.13:20 Breezing 3/4
VIDEO
April 30 NOTE: Under Julien Leparoux and outside of Sounion, a 5-year-old gelded allowance horse, who went in 1:14.20. Fractions for Classic Causeway were 24.60, 36.60 and 48.60, out seven furlongs in 1.27:00.
Trainer Lynch said, “He’s been doing everything right on the track to earn his spot in the Derby. With the way he’s training, I don’t want to be the one to hold him back.”
May 7, Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs, 1 1/4 Mile. Classic Causeway finished 11th, beaten 17 lengths, after 12th or 13th to the top of the stretch.
QUOTES
Brian Lynch: “It was not the cleanest break and he got shuffled back. It was a roughly run race and Julien could never get a run going. We’ll regroup and give him some time to recover. But certainly the Preakness is not in our plans.”
Julien Leparoux: “We missed the break a little bit, but there was some pace in front so I was kinda happy anyway to be where I was. He traveled beautifully and gave me everything he had.”
CROWN PRIDE (JPN) POST 7 ML 20-1
Derby Points: 100
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $671,544
Jockey: Christophe Lemiere
Trainer: Koichi Shintani
Owner: Teruya Yoshida
Breeder: Shadai Farm
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Reach The Crown (JPN) (Special Week (JPN), Crown Piece (JPN))
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Emmy's Pride (JNP) (King Kamehameha (JPN), Emmy's Smile (JPN))
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 5-0-7-2-0 (14) 1.55
Foal Date: May 4, 2019
Auction Price(s): NA
Arrival at Churchill Downs: March 30, released from quarantine April 1. Remains in Quarantine Barn 1.
March 26, UAE Derby, Meydan, About 1 3/16 Mile.
Japan connections had a very good day, including this race as Crown Pride ground out a classy victory in the hands of Damian Lane. On a day when being close to the pace was working well, local hope Summer Is Tomorrow made the running and was travelling smoothly as the field entered the homestretch. Out a little wider, however, loomed Crown Pride from off the pace, and the pair separated from the field out for a duel.
At the furlong marker, Summer Is Tomorrow appeared to have the measure of his rival, but his stride shortened and the Crown Pride’s reserve of stamina showed inside the final 100 meters for a victory by 2 3/4 lengths over the pacesetter. Island Falcon closed well to finish third, getting by Beendoog by 3/4 lengths and 1 1/4 length back of the place horse.
The winning time was 1:59.76.
Order of finish: Crown Pride, Summer Is Tomorrow, Island Falcon, Bendoog, Quality Boone, Reiwa Homare, Kiefer, Sekifu, Azure Coast, Withering, Combustion, Arabian Gazelles, Gilded Age, Irwin, Get Back Goldie, Pinehurst
Track notes
Crown Pride: Tracked leaders, led 150m out, ran on well.
Summer is Tomorrow: Soon led, ridden clear 500m out, headed 200m out, ran on
Island Falcon: Mid-division, ran on well final 400m, nearest finish
Bendoog: Tracked leaders, every chance 500m out, ran on same pace final 400m
QUOTES
Damian Lane: “He stepped out okay but didn't travel too well thereafter, and it just took a little bit to get him in a rhythm and get him going. I got crowded a little early, but as I say he was able to stride through and take up position and it was plain sailing from there, really. I was confident a long way out, and although he made hard work of it in the straight, ultimately he was the toughest out there. He's a strong, tough horse and saw the distance out well. Whenever you jump aboard (a Japanese-trained horse) you can be confident they're going to be strong and they're going to run well, and it's just a privilege to be a part of it.”
Trainer quote unavailable.
April 7 NOTE: Crown Pride is stabled in one of Churchill Downs’ Quarantine barns, and he will remain there until the Kentucky Derby. He typically trains at 7:40 a.m. ET.
April 16 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
1.18:60 Breezing 1/1
April 16 NOTE: At 7:30 on a track rated good, exercise rider Masa Matsuda guided Crown Pride six furlongs from the half-mile pole. The duo easily completed opening fractions of 14.60, 28.20, 54 and 1:06.20. Crown Pride steadily picked up his work around the turn and onto the backside before completing his move through seven furlongs in 1:32.40 according to Churchill Downs. The official clocking was for six furlongs.
April 19 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
49:80 Breezing 24/44
April 24 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
49:20 Breezing 35/58
April 24 NOTE: His fractions were 12.40, 24.80 and 37.20, out five furlongs in 101.40. The final eighth-mile to the finish line was 12 flat. More to come. Trainer Koichi Shintani is scheduled to arrive in Louisville on May 1 and will be in attendance at the post position draw Monday, May 2.
April 25 NOTE: Crown Pride returned to the track a day after breezing. With Masa Matsuda aboard, the UAE Derby winner jogged in the mile chute and then schooled in the starting gate before returning to the Quarantine Barn.
April 26 NOTE: Crown Pride is scheduled to work again tomorrow.
April 27, 2022 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
46:40 Breezing 1/30
April 27 NOTE:
As far as I can tell, the cameramen almost completely missed this workout. If a video shows up I will post it. Crown Pride breezed outside Southern Passage, a horse with little early speed. Crown Pride went about his business with splits of 11.60 and 23.20, then he finished in another 23.20. He was out five in 1:00.20 before his rider pretty much shut him down with six in 1:14.80. This was Crown Pride's fourth workout in 12 days. I am open-minded about different training methods used in other countries and am following this with interest. Regular exercise rider Masa Matsuda was aboard Crown Pride. Before the work, Crown Pride warmed up doing dressage in the mile chute while the track was undergoing a harrow break, and following the work he was gate-schooled and then had a leisurely trip back to the quarantine barn.
“That is a typical Japanese training regimen,” said Japan-based representative for the Kentucky Derby Kate Hunter. “Masa was very pleased with the work. He said Crown Pride moves well over the surface with no extra effort.”
April 28 NOTE: Crown Pride had a walk day following a half-mile work in :46.40 on Wednesday. As with any horse, supporters want to see him break well in the Kentucky Derby. Video at Churchill Downs showed him veering left breaking from the schooling gate. I found this comment in the stewards' report after the UAE Derby: "Bumped on jumping, shifted out and bumped another runner." However, he recovered and won the UAE Derby, although not in a fast time.
April 29 NOTE: He may breeze again Saturday.
April 30 NOTE: After warming up in the mile chute for several minutes, Crown Pride finished the most serious portion of his morning training with another strong gallop.
May 1 NOTE: Crown Pride is scheduled to have his final pre-Derby work on Wednesday. He was back on the track today.
POST POSITION DRAW: Trainer Koichi Shintani: “We’re very happy with lucky number seven. And the Derby is on May 7.”
May 4 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
46:60 Breezing 1/9
I will post a video if it is made available. It can be viewed at the May 4 Works show link on the Home page.
May 4 NOTE: Fractions were 24.20 and 35.60, with an easy gallop-out in 1:00, followed by a slow gallop up the backstretch.
May 7, Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs, 1 1/4 Mile.
Crown Pride finished 13th, beaten 18 1/4 lengths, after prompting a too-fast pace to the top of the stretch instead of sitting back and launching a bid.
QUOTES
Koichi Shintani: Couldn’t be reached for comment.
Christophe Lemaire: “Early on it was quick. He took good position easily and I could hold him very well. He gradually got tired and couldn't pick up at the end.”
CYBERKNIFE (KY) POST 16 ML 20-1
Derby Points: 100
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $752,000
Jockey: Florent Geroux
Trainer: Brad H. Cox
Owner: Gold Square LLC
Breeder: Kenneth L. Ramsey & Sarah K. Ramsey
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Gun Runner (Candy Ride (ARG), Quiet Giant)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Awesome Flower (Flower Alley, Formalities Aside)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 0-2-6-0-0 (8) 1.67
Foal Date: March 14, 2019
Auction Price(s): $400,000 Fasig-Tipton Showcase 2020
Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 6. Barn 22, Stall 3.
April 2, Arkansas Derby, Oaklawn Park, 1 1/8 Mile. Despite dumping Florent Geroux in the post parade, Cyberknife was all business in the race, tracking early pacesetter Kavod from fourth through fractions of 22.11 and 46.53 for the first half mile. He took command around the final turn and drew off to win by 2 3/4 lengths over the ultra-consistent Barber Road, who placed in all four of Oaklawn’s Kentucky Derby points races. The filly Secret Oath, the 7-5 favorite, was third after running last early and mounting a challenge that flattened out in the stretch. California shipper Doppleganger was fourth after a tough trip and was followed by Kavod, Ben Diesel, We The People, Un Ojo and Chasing Time.
Brad Cox: “Sometimes it works out, sometimes it doesn't, right, like your thoughts. You watch these horses train and you have high hopes. Sometimes, they pick you up, sometimes they let you down. In this case, he picked us up today. We thought he was a good colt. He got some good (speed) figures last time. I don't really know what happened in the Lecomte - from a maiden win to the Lecomte was just too much too quick for him. He looked great in the Lecomte and then straightened up and was just nowhere, backed out of it. So, he certainly trained like a big horse and ran like one today. I was a little concerned he (Florent Geroux) may have been moving just a touch early into a hot pace. But, obviously, it worked out. Very, very proud of him.”
Florent Geroux: “Great effort with some high hopes for him. We always thought he was very talented. Looks like he finally put it together and he’s probably not even 100% as he was zig zagging down the lane. I’m hoping he’s going to be a little straighter on the first Saturday in May. But, a very talented horse.”
THE NEXT DAY: Brad Cox: “I didn’t see it (Cyberknife unseating Gaffalione) happen, but somebody yelled at me and I said, ‘Oh'. I was too far away to do anything about it, but Florent was able to jump up on him by himself. He’s (Cyberknife) got a lot of energy (today). He’s feeling good. It’s a nice, crisp morning and if you watched him walk around here, you definitely wouldn’t think he ran a mile and an eighth yesterday. He’s got a lot of energy.”
Cyberknife raced without blinkers. Cyberknife debuted with blinkers, then raced without blinkers in his next starts, including a troubled second-place finish in a Nov. 5 sprint at Churchill Downs. Cyberknife broke his maiden going two turns for the first time Dec. 26 at Fair Grounds before adding blinkers again in the LeComte when he finished off the board.
“Was super disappointed in his (Nov. 5 race). I was in California maybe for the Breeders’ Cup for that race. But I was like ‘Aww, you know, this is our spot; this is when we’re going to get our maiden broken. He didn’t run bad; he just wouldn’t go by the other horse. Not to take anything away from the winner that day (Classic Moment), but I thought he was goofing off and not really focused and paying attention. If you watch his race replays, they tell you more about him than anything in regards to his antics down the lane. Obviously in the post parade yesterday, he did get Flo off and he’s a handful, he really is. He’s not bad. He’s just full of energy.”
APRIL 10 NOTE: Cyberknife is set to work at Churchill Downs next weekend.
April 16 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
1.00:00 Breezing 4/14
April 16 NOTE: On a track rated good, Cyberknife worked at 9:00 outside of multiple stakes-placed stablemate Tommy Bee. Cyberknife started two lengths behind Tommy Bee and completed fractions of 12.20, 23.80 and 47.20. Cyberknife finished even with Tommy Bee around the seven eighths pole and easily galloped out six furlongs in 1:15.40.
Trainer Cox said, “I thought he looked great. He’s done well at Churchill in the past and really likes it here.”
April 21 NOTE: Jockey Geroux certain on Cyberknife.
April 23 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
1.12:20 Breezing 1/3
FLORENT GEROUX VIDEO
BRAD COX VIDEO
April 23 NOTE:
Cyberknife breezed at 5:15 with Florent Geroux in the saddle on the outside of stablemate Koolhaus, a 4-year-old allowance horse. Cyberknife started two lengths back at the five-furlong marker and finished two lengths in front at the wire. Cyberknife continued his strong move around the far turn and completed seven furlongs in 1:24.60, according to Churchill Downs clocker John Nichols.
Jockey Geroux said, “It was a really strong move, and he’s a really good work horse. He continues to improve as time goes on, and he showed that winning the Arkansas Derby. Even going back to his allowance win before the Arkansas Derby he showed a new level of class.”
April 26 NOTE: Cyberknife is scheduled to work Saturday.
April 27 NOTE: Cyberknife visited the Churchill Downs starting gate and had a 1 1/2-mile gallop at 7:30 a.m.
April 28 NOTE: Trainer Cox said Cyberknife will work Saturday.
April 30 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
1.11:20 Breezing 1/4
VIDEO
FLORENT GEROUX VIDEO
April 30 NOTE:
Cyberknife and Zozos worked in company, with Cyberknife breaking off a length behind and finishing on even terms. The move began at the 5/8 pole and ended at the 7/8 pole (midway through the clubhouse turn). Track clockers probably have the splits, but they aren't available yet. I will update if they become available. The pair were pulled up around mid-stretch.
“I think this is the part of Derby Week that is special because a lot of family and friends are here to support you,” said Geroux, who hasn’t seen his brother for more than two years due to COVID-19 restrictions in France. “I’ve been watching his plane on my phone, and my family is excited to spend some time with him once he arrives.”
POST POSITION DRAW: Trainer Brad Cox: “I’m happy with all three draws (Cyberknife, Tawyny Port, Zozos). I think with the Derby starting at the head of the stretch, and a quarter of a mile to the first turn, they’ll be able to get into position.”
May 3 NOTE: Trainer Cox said yesterday, “I thought his two works here were the best Derby works I’ve seen. I may be biased, but that’s my opinion.” Also, yesterday I noticed Cox was sitting at the table reserved for connections of Cyberknife during the post position draw ceremony, which is an important event.
May 7, Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs, 1 1/4 Mile.
Cyberknife finished 18th, beaten 42 3/4 lengths. He was in sixth place after the first six furlongs.
QUOTES
Brad Cox: “Cybernife, super disappointed."
Florent Geroux: “I broke super sharp and was in a great position. I only thing I can think of that the pace was very hot and I was up close. I was saving ground on the first turn but he didn’t run his race.”
EPICENTER (KY) POST 3 ML 7-2
Derby Points: 164
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $940,000
Jockey: Joel Rosario
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Owner: Winchell Thoroughbreds LLC (Joan and Ron Winchell)
Breeder: Westwind Farms
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Not This Time (Giant's Causeway, Miss Macy Sue)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Silent Candy (Candy Ride (ARG), Silent Queen)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 0-0-9-1-2 (12) 0.60
Foal Date: Feb. 19, 2019
Auction Price(s): $260,000 Keeneland September 2020
Arrival at Churchill Downs: March 29. Barn 38, Stall 20.
Feb. 19, Risen Star Stakes, Fair Grounds, 1 1/8 Mile.
To win, Epicenter just had to run his race a little better, and he did. An easy winner of the Gun Runner Stakes earlier in the Fair Grounds meet, Epicenter set fast fractions only to be beaten a nose in January’s Lecomte Stakes by longshot closer Call Me Midnight. With his front-running style, Epicenter controlled the pace in the Risen Star and won under Joel Rosario.
Breaking alertly from the five-hole, Epicenter needed little urging to open up a length on Pioneer of Medina in fractions of 23.79 and 47.97. After a comfortable six furlongs in 1:12.25, Epicenter was able to skip away in the long stretch with a final time of 1:49.03 on a fast track. He cruised under the wire 2-3/4 lengths ahead of the late-running favorite Smile Happy, who had a bit of traffic trouble in his first start off the layoff. Zandon finished a half-length back in third in the 10-horse field after a horrible break from the gate.
Pioneer of Medina ran fourth followed by Tawny Port, Slow Down Andy, Trafalgar, Pappacap, Bodock and Russian Tank.
QUOTES
Joel Rosario: “He did run a really big race today. That was really nice. He looked like he was enjoying what he was doing and put in a really nice race today. We’ll see going forward how far he can go.”
Ron Winchell: “A little different than his last race in that every fraction was perfect. He looked nice and comfortable. We were just hoping he would finish the race and he did, he looked great.”
March 26, Louisiana Derby, Fair Grounds, 1 3/16 Mile.
Ridden by Joel Rosario, Epicenter proved rateable after winning two races at the track in front-running fashion. Drawn in the sixth post position, Epicenter broke alertly but was beaten into the first turn by Zozos and Florenet Geroux, who rolled to the front end in 23.27, 47.35, and 1:11.69 for six furlongs.
Epicenter backed off and ran on the rail while Pioneer of Medina, ridden by Tyler Gaffalione, chased Zozos entering the stretch. That's when Rosario angled out Epicenter to daylight and powered past rivals to win by 2 1/2 lengths in 1:54.38. Making his stakes debut and third start overall, Zozos and Pioneer of Medina held off late challengers to earn second and third, separated by two lengths. Pioneer of Medina had been shipped to New Orleans from south Florida for the third time this meet, and to make matters more challenging he threw Gaffalione in the post parade. Rattle N Roll, who was seventh early and thereafter made up no ground on the front pace, edged Galt and Call Me Midnight to run fourth. LeComte winner Call Me Midnight was far back early and flattened out in the stretch after launching his bid around the far turn. Kupuna, Curly Tail and Silent Power rounded out the finish.
QUOTES
Joel Rosario: “He took a little dirt today and he didn’t mind it. I shifted him out, and he did the rest. Not only is he a nice horse, but he also tries very hard. He was off the pace today and inside of horses. It seems like he can be special. The way he did it today, the mile and a quarter shouldn’t be a problem. We will see what happens.”
Steve Asmussen: “He’s made some great progress over the winter. He’s done so well over the surface here at the Fair Grounds, which has aided in his physical development. I just love the opportunity afforded to us with the series of races that they have here. He got a mile and an eighth in him, a front running win, and today, a little bit off the pace going a mile and three sixteenths in a very solid time. It gives us a tremendous amount of confidence in him moving into the Kentucky Derby. Everything is headed in that direction, and we couldn’t feel better about how we’ve gotten to this point.”
April 10 NOTE: Epicenter breezed five furlongs in 1:01 Sunday at 5:50 a.m. at Churchill Downs. His stablemate, filly Echo Zulu breezed 20 minutes prior to Epicenter and completed five furlongs in 1:00.80. With exercise rider Wilson Fabian up, Epicenter worked outside of fellow 3-year-old Guntown through opening eighth-mile fractions of 13.40, 25.40 and 37. The duo stayed together for most of the breeze and completed six furlongs in a comfortable 1:14.60 and were up seven furlongs in 1:29.40. Bettors tabbed Epicenter as the 9-2 favorite in Pool 5 of the Kentucky Derby Future Wager.
April 17 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
1:00.80 Breezing 7/26
STEVE ASMUSSEN/RACETRACK VIDEO (Clip at 2:32)
April 17 NOTE:
After Jackie's Warrior raced at Oaklawn, trainer Asmussen hightailed it to Louisville to observe Epicenter and Zulu (Kentucky Oaks) work this morning. He said, "The track is in top condition. Both horses are training extremely well. It has been standard (for them to work in company), and the company they worked with (today) is the company they worked with in New Orleans. We're trying to create more of the same, with the success they had there. With Epicenter, the spacing of his races since December has been very effective for him, and we're trying to put the building blocks in place for him to handle the mile and a quarter here. I couldn't feel any better about how he's doing and how much he likes it here at Churchill Downs. (In coming workouts) they are not going to be asked to pick it up much at all. Both of these horses have been working very sharply, and I'm very pleased with how they're doing it and how they're coming out of it."
Epicenter worked at 6:00 inside of three-time winning 6-year-old Gun It with exercise rider Wilson Fabian up, and Eddie Martin, Jr., who's won over 4,000 races, on the company. Epicenter clipped through opening fractions of 12.60, 24.20 and 36.00. Epicenter galloped out strongly around the clubhouse turn and onto the backside with a six-furlong gallop out in 1:13.60, seven in 1:27.00, and a mile in 1:44.00.
April 24 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
1.12:20 Breezing 3/4
RACING AND BLOODSTOCK MANAGER DAVID FISKE VIDEO
OWNER RON WINCHELL VIDEO
April 24 NOTE:
Epicenter worked outside Gun It under exercise rider Wilson Fabian. Opening fractions were 13.00, 24.40, 35.80 and 47.20. He was out seven furlongs in 1:26.20 and a mile in 1:41.00. Trainer Asmussen said, “We’re so happy the weather has cooperated on our scheduled work days. The racetrack is in great shape this morning. These were the most significant works for us. We’re following a pattern that we’re very comfortable with. I love the rhythm these horses are in. Both of these horses (including Echo Zulu) have kept their same workmates from New Orleans this winter. I’m unbelievably appreciative of the job Wilson and Eddie have done helping get them to this point.
“They’ve both started out as tremendous prospects and individuals. We’re aiming with incremental improvement to not take too big of a leap forward. So everything is a building block to success. Since they have arrived here at Churchill that trend has continued. I was so excited with Echo Zulu’s first work here.”
Asmussen is winless from 23 Derby starters. His trainees have finished second twice and third twice. His last starter to hit the board was Lookin At Lee, who finished second in 2017 after breaking from post 1. Asmussen finished third in 2016 with Gun Runner, second in 2011 with Nehro and third in 2007 with Curlin.
“I literally know what it feels like to win the Derby," Asmussen said. “I didn’t see Animal Kingdom coming down the center of the track (after Nehro). With Lookin At Lee, when Corey (Lanerie) cut the corner with him and the acceleration he showed going by tired horses, it just looked like he was going fast enough to win the Derby. Always Dreaming had enough to hold him off. The visuals of those moments were goosebump exciting. I’ve got 23 different feelings on the Derby but very vividly remember Nehro and Lookin At Lee.
“For Curlin’s Derby, I never thought that he’d get beat. The walkover for his Derby felt like it took three strides but the walk back felt like it was the Sahara Desert. He went to the Test Barn after the race with Zanjero (who finished 12th) and Zanejro was blowing hard. Curlin came out of the test barn and was his strong, usual self. He had enough ability but it wasn’t meant to be.”
April 26 NOTE: Epicenter returned to the track Tuesday morning following his scheduled Monday walk day and jogged one mile and had a light one-mile gallop under exercise rider Roberto Howell.
Trainer Asmussen said, “To see the way Epicenter was able to sit just off the pace in the Louisiana Derby is very pleasing considering how fast the early pace is each year in the Derby. With 20 horses in the Derby, the post position draw matters. We obviously hope he’s able to get away from there cleanly, but the success he’s had with variable styles is one less thing to worry about.”
April 27 NOTE: Epicenter trained later than his normal 5:30 a.m. outing to school in the Kentucky Derby starting gate. Epicenter was on the track at 7:30 a.m. during the restricted window for Kentucky Derby and Oaks training. After his schooling session he had a standard gallop with exercise rider Roberto Howell in the boot.
April 28 NOTE: Epicenter returned to his normal 5:45 am training time. He is scheduled to work Sunday.
May 1 CHURCHILL DOWNS Muddy
1.01:00 Breezing 3/6
May 1 NOTE: Epicenter breezed five furlongs inside of Alejandro. Internal fractions not available with this post, he was out six furlong in 1.13:40. His exercise rider had his feet jammed on the brakes to pull Epicenter up as the colt continued to upper stretch. Exercise rider Roberto Howell piloted him through splits of 12.60, 24.40, 36.20, 48.40 and out six furlongs in 1:13.80.
Trainer Asmussen said, “Honestly I have so much confidence in Epicenter right now I don’t think you could overdo it. He has taken a lot of training extremely easy. Including, I thought he took the Louisiana Derby extremely easy, how he came back from the test barn and walked into the barn, and that's why his training and his works ever since have been faster, or stronger, than is the norm for me.
“It felt perfect, knowing (Alejandro) and how he goes about what he is doing. His previous workmate, Gun It, is a very strong, very physical horse … somewhat hard to manage, and that brings out a little extra in (Epicenter), especially getting to the pole, getting off, getting away from the pole and what you are getting out of it. And as you saw today, they were away from it a lot smoother, just a lot easier to the pole. Still strong, still very smooth. I think he is in a beautiful rhythm, and we are trying to create the circumstances and prepare for what we are expecting to happen in the races this week.
“I am unbelievably excited to be doing this well with this much on the line. I had a pretty anxious drive last night with rain and thunderstorms for most of it, and if it's meant to be then it's meant to be, but everything seems to be working out perfectly. This year’s Oaks and Derby are extremely exciting with how strong the races look and how well all the horses are doing going into it. It is going to be an extremely exciting five or six days.”
POST POSITION DRAW: Trainer Steve Asmussen: “It matches his favorite colors (referring to the Asmussen’s barn color and saddle towel color of blue). Like any race, you want to get away nicely from the gate and go from there. How long he stands in there, how long it takes to load, 150,000 people staring at him – it’s a lot. Joel is very confident in rhythm of the horse. So, if he is away cleanly Joel will let him be who he is.”
May 7, Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs, 1 1/4 Mile. Epicenter, who was never further back than six lengths under Joel Rosario, was in eighth place after a half-mile. He struck the lead leaving the turn but was caught in deep stretch to lose by three-quarters of a length to 80-1 shot Rich Strike.
QUOTES
Steve Asmussen: “I can’t believe it after Epicenter’s effort. And, the scenario in which I went 0 for 24, you couldn’t make up. I got beat by the horse that just got in.”
Joel Rosario: “Everything was perfect. We thought we were home. Too bad that horse got us right at the end. I thought Epicenter ran a tremendous race. He did everything. He responded when I asked him. We ran too good to get beat.”
ETHEREAL ROAD (KY) POST 20 ML 30-1
Derby Points: 22
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $231,000
Jockey: Luis Contreras
Trainer: D. Wayne Lukas
Owner: Aaron Sones
Breeder: Paul Pompa, Jr.
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Quality Road (Elusive Quality, Kobla)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Sustained (War Front, Sweetstorm Amy)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 2-4-9-1-0 (16) 1.91
Foal Date: Feb. 9, 2019
Auction Price(s): $90,000 Keeneland September 2020
Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 16 or 17. Barn 44
April 7 NOTE: Was stabled at Oaklawn through March 31 in prep for Blue Grass.
April 9, Toyota Blue Grass Stakes, Keeneland, 1 1/8 Mile. Ethereal Road finished seventh, beaten 11 1/2 lengths after running at or near mid-pack most of the way.
April 16, Stonestreet Lexington Stakes, Keeneland, 1 1/16 Mile. Ethereal Road finished fourth, beaten 3 1/2 lengths by Tawny Port. He picked up only two Derby points, which gave him a total of 22, and that left him number 23 on the Derby Leaderboard.
April 25 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
1.02:20 Breezing 8/8
May 1 NOTE: Had to be pushed to gallop out on April 25.
May 6 NOTE:
Scratched.
HAPPY JACK (KY) POST 2 ML 30-1
Derby Points: 30
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $142,000
Jockey: Rafael Bejarano
Trainer: Doug O'Neill
Owner: Calumet Farm
Breeder: Calumet Farm
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Oxbow (Awesome Again (CAN), Tizamazing)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Tapitstry (CAN), Tapit, Chic Sheba)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 2-8-11-0-1 (22) 2.38
Foal Date: March 17, 2019
Auction Price(s):
RNA $0.00 Keeneland November 2019
Arrival at Churchill Downs: May 1
After breaking his maiden at first asking, he ran fifth in the Robert B. Lewis Stakes and third in the San Felipe Stakes.
April 9, Santa Anita Derby, Santa Anita, 1 1/8 Mile. Happy Jack broke slowly and finished third, beaten 12 1/4 lengths by winner Taiba. He finished 10 lengths behind Messier. He was fifth or sixth of six, behind five or 10 lengths, at the first three calls. He edged fourth finisher Armagnac by a neck, which assured him to make the Kentucky Derby top 20 in points.
April 29 NOTE: Luis Saez will be aboard for Saturday's breeze.
April 30 KEENELAND Fast
1:39.60 Breezing 1/1
April 30 NOTE: Trainer O'Neill said, “We’ve had some good fortune doing this before. We did it with Nyquist where we came here and did our final prep (workout). It’s so quiet; the track’s got a good cushion so it’s a little bit demanding, which we think they get a little bit better exercise out of it. Very happy with the way it went this morning. (He’s a) horse who’s got the potential but he hasn’t put up the numbers that we need to be a huge player in the race. We wanted to ask him firmly and make sure he was fit and ready. To me, he answered that question, and he’s ready.”
May 1 NOTE: Trainer O'Neill said, “Rafy (Bejarano) got to know (Happy Jack) a little bit. ‘Jack’ has a lot of ability and maybe the light bulb hasn’t gone completely on, so I’m hoping it does next Saturday.”
POST POSITION DRAW: Trainer Doug O’Neill: “It is good. We’re happy. I think that new gate makes it better for the horses inside. We remain optimistic.”
May 7, Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs, 1 1/4 Mile. Happy Jack finished 14th, beaten 19 lengths. He was last heading into the far turn.
QUOTES
Assistant trainer Leondro Mora: “Rafael told us that his tail got caught in the back of the gate when he was fussing before the start. Thank goodness they backed him out and when they released the back gates, his tail came free.”
Rafael Bejarano: “My horse was good in the beginning but somehow his tail got trapped in the gate and he started acting crazy. He tried to flip out and then they had to back him out.”
MESSIER (ON) POST 6 ML 8-1
Derby Points: 40
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $390,000
Jockey: John Velazquez
Trainer: Tim Yakteen
Owner: SF Racing LLC, Starlight Racing, Madaket Stables LLC, Robert E. Masterson, Jay A. Schoenfarber, Waves Edge Capital LLC, Catherine M. Donovan, Golconda Stable, Siena Farm LLC
Breeder: Sam-Son Farm
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Empire Maker (Unbridled, Toussaud)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Checkered Past (CAN) (Smart Strike (CAN), Catch the Flag (CAN))
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 12-12-14-0-2 (40) 3.44
Foal Date: March 24, 2019
Auction Price(s): $470,000 Fasig-Tipton Select 2020
Arrival at Churchill Downs: May 1. Barn 37.
April 9, Grade I Santa Anita Derby, Santa Anita, 1 1/8 Mile.
With stable mate Messier in control under John Velazaquez after overtaking pacesetter Forbidden Kingdom, Taiba wheeled three-wide at the top of the lane and assumed command approaching the sixteenth pole to score a scintillating 2 1/4-length victory got the distance in 1:48.67. Mike Smith was aboard the winner.
As expected, Forbidden Kingdom and Juan Hernandez went straight to the front, but he was pressed every step of the way by Messier through early fractions of 23.23, 46.66 and 1:10.93. A quarter mile from home, Messier put Forbidden Kingdom away and led at the furlong marker in a time of 1:35.97, but he was no match for the winner late. Forbidden Kingdom faded to finish sixth and last, beaten 14 1/2 lengths. Ridden by Abel Cedillo, Happy Jack was off at 26-1 and paid $4.20 to show.
QUOTES
John Velazquez: “We didn’t get the result we wanted, and there wasn’t much I could do to get him up there. Mike was ahead and did the work.”
THE NEXT DAY: Trainer Yakteen said, “Messier is on target. He’ll move up from yesterday’s race since he had quite a bit of time between starts (two months after a 15-length win in the Robert B. Lewis on Feb. 6). This sets him up perfect for the Derby, and if you look back in history, there were many second-place finishers that ended up winning the Kentucky Derby. Messier ran huge, and he’ll be able to benefit with this race underneath him.”
April 15 NOTE: Trainer Yakteen said, “Both horses (Messier and Taiba) are back to the track and look great. I’ll probably work them next Friday and plan on shipping to Churchill the weekend before (either April 30 or May 1).”
April 23 SANTA ANITA PARK Fast
59:80 Handily 7/37
April 23 NOTE: Messier worked solo in a “maintenance” drill, per trainer Yakteen's comment to DRF. Messier passed the finish line in 47.20 and finished the work in the clubhouse turn. Yakteen had him galloping out six furlongs in 1:12.00. Yakteen said, “We let him stretch his legs, keep the air in his lungs, and keep our tank full. That was accomplished. We’re very happy with the drill. He was doing it comfortably, doing it within himself, Drayden had plenty of horse.”
April 23 NOTE: Messier is scheduled to work again April 28 or 29 and be flown to Kentucky May 1.
April 27 Video: Tim Yakteen
April 28 NOTE: Messier is scheduled to work Friday at Santa Anita. He is set to be flown Sunday to Indianapolis, followed by a van ride to Churchill Downs.
April 29 SANTA ANITA PARK Fast
1.11:60 Handily 1/1
April 29 NOTE: The work was solo with a good gallop-out. Trainer Yakteen said, “I’ll play it by ear and see what I want to do. I’ll go into Churchill, read the horses and see if I want to do anything there. But since Taiba’s work was a day before Messier’s, I might breeze him in Kentucky or let him stretch his legs a little bit there. If I want to just gallop into the race, I’ll gallop into the race.”
April 30 NOTE: Trainer Yakteen said, “Messier just walked the shed today. Taiba had a jog day today, and we had jockey Ryan Curatolo do the honors. He (Tabia) looked great on the track.”
May 1 NOTE: Messier is expected at Churchill Downs this afternoon at about 3:00 ET.
POST POSITION DRAW: Trainer Tim Yakteen: “They made us wait (said in jest, Messier and Taiba were among the last three horses chosen). But in the end we drew well.”
May 7, Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs, 1 1/4 Mile.
Messier finished 15th, beaten 19 1/4 lengths. He led six furlongs into the race after sitting just off a fast pace.
QUOTES
Tim Yakteen: Couldn’t be reached for comment.
John Velazquez: No quote available.
MO DONEGAL (KY) POST 1 ML 10-1
Derby Points: 112
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $561,500
Jockey: Irad Ortiz, Jr.
Trainer: Todd A. Pletcher
Owner: Donegal Racing (Jerry Crawford, et al)
Breeder: Ashview Farm & Colts Neck Stables
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Uncle Mo (Indian Charlie, Playa Maya)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Callingmissbrown (Pulpit, Island Sand)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 2-6-8-0-0 (16) 3.00
Foal Date: April 19, 2019
Auction Price(s): $250,000 Keeneland September 2020
Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 17. Barn 35.
April 9, Wood Memorial, Aqueduct, 1 1/8 Mile.
Mo Donegal, piloted skillfully by Joel Rosario, arrived in the final strides to capture the race. Todd Pletcher got a record-tying seventh win in the Wood, joining “Sunny Jim” Fitzsimmons.
Early Voting and Jose Ortiz broke alertly and took command through a quarter-mile in 23.86 as Rosario saved ground from the inside post aboard the slow-starting Mo Donegal in front of only favored Morello under Jose Lezcano, who hit the gate and trailed. Early Voting dictated terms down the backstretch with A.P.’s Secret pressing from second position and Barese moving comfortably in the clear in third as the half-mile ticked by in 47.75.
Rosario, ever patient, inched his way closer to the frontrunners along the rail, but Mo Donegal had only two horses beaten approaching the final turn. In the turn, Mo Donegal advanced with great energy to the inside of rivals. Once straightened away for the stretch run, Mo Donegal easily passed to the inside of A.P.’s Secret along the rail before angling to the outside of Early Voting and taking aim at the leader. Early Voting dug in gamely but could not deny Mo Donegal, who posted a neck score in a final time of 1:47.96 over the fast main track.
It was another 3 1/2-lengths back to Skippylongstocking in third, who was 1 1/2-lengths clear of A.P.’s Secret. Rounding out the order of finish were Barese, Morello, Long Term and Golden Code.
Mo Donegal entered the Wood from a closing third in the Holy Bull on Feb. 5. In March, he spiked a temperature and was scratched from the Fountain of Youth.
QUOTES
Joel Rosario: “It was a perfect trip. He kept digging in at the end and kept coming. It was a good race. I tried to save ground, and it looked like the track was good inside, so I tried to stay there for as long as I could. He was handling everything well. I just rode him the way he came out and saw how he handled it and hopefully he comes with a finish. He was just galloping out and reaching out. Turning for home, we just had something left. He took off on his own. He’s a very nice horse.”
Todd Pletcher: "I thought he ran a great race. It didn't really unfold the way we thought it would. When Steve's horse (Morello) didn't get away well, I was worried the fractions were a little soft, but he was able to overcome that and come with a big run. I think he got his last quarter-mile in 23.69 which is pretty impressive. He was resolute. He kept coming and I was thrilled to see him get there."
Lead owner Jerry Crawford: “I thought he was on wings.I think the performance he gave today was even better than it looked to the naked eye. I’ve been here all day yesterday and today and not one horse has closed on the dirt in two days, and he came from far back. So, he had to be not just the best today, he had to be much the best to prevail. You never celebrate ahead of time, but I was confident for the last 100 yards at least. I love that we won today, not for me, but for my partners.”
THE NEXT DAY:
Trainer Pletcher said Mo Donegal would ship to Churchill Downs next week and added, “I thought it was a super effort on his part. We worked out the trip we hoped to with the exception of the hot pace scenario we hoped would develop. Aside from that, everything worked out well. He put in a good, sustained run and a fast final quarter. He found a seam when he needed it. It was a big run from him. We've always felt like the mile and a quarter distance would suit him well. In the Derby, it's important for everyone to work out a trip. A lot of it will be pace dependent and being able to find seams when he needs to. It's important not to get stopped at a bad time.”
Donegal Racing seeks its first Derby score after previous attempts with Paddy O’Prado (3rd, 2010), Dullahan (3rd, 2012) and Keen Ice (7th, 2015).
April 22, 2022 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
50:20 Breezing 49/62
April 22 NOTE:
Mo Donegal breezed outside of My Prankster, a good 3-year-old sprinter, through composed early fractions of 13 and 26.20. They galloped out five furlongs in 1:02.20. with Irad Ortiz, Jr. up.
Trainer Pletcher said, "With Mo Donegal, with the Wood just 13 days ago, we were just looking for an easy half in :50. He had a nice gallop out as well. All the horses got over the track well. The track still had a little moisture in it from yesterday but they all handled it well.”
Jockey Ortiz said, "Mo Donegal is a really good horse. He is nice and quiet. He does everything we ask him to do. It looks like he should like the distance. It shouldn’t be a problem with him. With a mile-and-a-quarter for 3-year-olds, he’s the type of style you want for that day.”
April 27 NOTE: Mo Donegal galloped 1 3/8 miles during the 7:30-7:45 morning training window for Derby and Oaks horses. Trainer Pletcher said, “The forecast looks a little dicey for the weekend. If the forecast looks favorable, I’d work the (Oaks) fillies Friday and the colts Saturday. I am prepared to move up a day or back a day with either of them.”
April 28 NOTE: Trainer Pletcher plans to work Mo Donegal Saturday morning but overnight rain Friday is in the forecast. “We are monitoring the weather,” he said.
April 29 NOTE: Mike Repole purchased an undisclosed part of Mo Donegal. Donegal Racing president Jerry Crawford said,"With Donegal bringing 300 partners and friends to the Derby and Mike bringing his entourage, Mo will have more support than the New York Mets." Repole campaigned sire Uncle Mo.
April 29 NOTE: Irad Ortiz, Jr. will be aboard for Saturday's breeze.
April 30 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
48.60 Breezing 55/130
VIDEO PENDING
April 30 NOTE:
Mo Donegal, with Irad Ortiz, Jr. up, breezed inside tough 3-year-old sprinter My Prankster, going four furlongs in 48.60, out five in 101.80.
April 30 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
48.60 Breezing 55/130
VIDEO
TODD PLETCHER VIDEO
April 30 NOTE: Mo Donegal, with Irad Ortiz, Jr. up, breezed inside tough 3-year-old sprinter My Prankster, going four furlongs in 48.60, out five in 101.80. Internal splits aren't available.
Pletcher watched his colts’ drills from the Churchill grandstand and called Mo Donegal’s move “excellent. He was in hand and it was a good controlled work and gallop out. I was very happy with it.”
May 1 NOTE: While stablemates Charge It and Pioneer of Medina had walk days following workouts yesterday, Mo Donegal – who also breezed yesterday – was sent to the track Sunday and galloped a mile and a quarter. “He’s very happy,” exercise rider Amelia Green said.
POST POSITION DRAW: Trainer Todd Pletcher: “I think the new gate (which brings the inside horses farther off the rail) should work to Mo Donegal’s advantage. He’s got some experience in there; he just won the Wood Memorial from the one hole. He’s used to having dirt in his face and I’d hope that Irad (Ortiz Jr.) could save some ground around that first turn and get us in a good spot. He’s one of the few horses in my barn that I think could handle a spot like that."
May 7, Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs, 1 1/4 Mile. Mo Donegal had problems early after breaking from post 1 and finished fifth, beaten 3 3/4 lengths, after being in 17th position after the first six furlongs.
QUOTES
Todd Pletcher: “Mo Donegal all but lost it at the gate. That’s the second year in a row that’s happened to us, even though that new gate gets them further off the rail. But to his credit, he kept trying to the end."
Irad Ortiz Jr.: “I didn’t have the best break out of there. I worked out my trip, and my horse ran great.”
PIONEER OF MEDINA (KY) POST 11 ML 30-1
Derby Points: 25
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $116,000
Jockey: TBD
Trainer: Todd A. Pletcher
Owner: Sumaya U.S. Stable
Breeder: International Equities Holding, Inc.
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Pioneerof the Nile (Empire Maker, Star of Goshen)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Lights of Medina (Eskendereya, Medina Thunder)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 3-3-6-0-0 (12) 3.00
Foal Date: Feb. 24. 2019
Auction Price(s): RNA $485,000 Keeneland September 2020
Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 17. Barn 35.
March 26, Louisiana Derby, Fair Grounds, 1 3/16 Mile. Epicenter proved rateable after winning two races at the track in front-running fashion. Drawn in the sixth post position, Epicenter broke alertly but was beaten into the first turn by Zozos and Florenet Geroux, who rolled to the front end in 23.27, 47.35, and 1:11.69 for six furlongs.
Epicenter backed off and ran on the rail while Pioneer of Medina, ridden by Tyler Gaffalione, chased Zozos entering the stretch. That's when Rosario angled out Epicenter to daylight and powered past rivals to win by 2 1/2 lengths in 1:54.38. Making his stakes debut and third start overall, Zozos and Pioneer of Medina held off late challengers to earn second and third, separated by two lengths. Pioneer of Medina had been shipped to New Orleans from south Florida for the third time this meet, and to make matters more challenging he threw Gaffalione in the post parade. Rattle N Roll, who was seventh early and thereafter made up no ground on the front pace, edged Galt and Call Me Midnight to run fourth. LeComte winner Call Me Midnight was far back early and flattened out in the stretch after launching his bid around the far turn. Kupuna, Curly Tail and Silent Power rounded out the finish.
QUOTES
No post-race connections quotes available.
April 15, 2022 PALM BEACH DOWNS Fast
1.00:41 Breezing 1/8
April 24 NOTE: With Morello's defection, Pioneer of Medina can make the Derby field. He has not breezed since April 15, but he's okay. Trainer Pletcher told BloodHorse, "Need to see the breeze tomorrow, but he had a good gallop this morning. Seems to be in good shape. He's a horse that's always trained well. He's improved kind of in each race. You know I think the Fair Grounds form's holding up pretty strongly, and he was competitive in those races. So he needs to move forward again, but, you know we like what we've been seeing."
April 25 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
59:80 Breezing 1/8
April 25 NOTE: Classic Causeway is now back in the Derby picture, knocking Pioneer of Medina down to number 21 on the Derby leaderboard. Working during the special training session with maiden winner Macallan, Pioneer of Medina posted eighth of a mile fractions of 12.60, 24.40, 35.60 and 47.80. he galloped out six furlong in 1:12.60, seven in 1:25.40 and a mile in 1:40.20.
April 25 NOTE: Trainer Pletcher said, “You can use all the trainer clichés you want. We saw what we wanted to see. It was very good, well executed with a strong finish, and he galloped out well. I’ll talk it over with Mr. (Oussama) Aboughazale and we’ll see how he comes out of the work and make a decision. He got a good breeze over the track, and he has the opportunity to draw in.”
April 26 NOTE: When he was asked if there is a defection from the prospective Derby field, would Pioneer of Medina be a go? trainer Pletcher said, "We're thinking about it." Whether that was said tongue-in-cheek is anyone's guess.
April 27 NOTE: Pioneer of Medina galloped 1 3/8 miles during the 7:30-7:45 morning training window for Derby and Oaks horses. Trainer Pletcher said, “The forecast looks a little dicey for the weekend. If the forecast looks favorable, I’d work the (Oaks) fillies Friday and the colts Saturday. I am prepared to move up a day or back a day with either of them.”
April 28 NOTE: Trainer Pletcher plans to work Pioneer of Medina Saturday morning but overnight rain Friday is in the forecast. “We are monitoring the weather,” he said.
April 29 NOTE: Exercise rider Carlos Perez will be aboard for Saturday's breeze.
April 30 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
47.40 Breezing 9/130
VIDEO
TODD PLETCHER VIDEO
April 30 NOTE:
Charge It, with Luis Saez up, breezed inside of Pioneer of Medina. Charge It was a little better on the gallop-out. Track clockers caught them in 12.20, 23.60, 35.80 and 47.40, and out five furlongs in 59.60 and six in 112.40. Pioneer of Medina still needs a defection to make the Derby field. During the move, the backside siren activated for a loose horse in a gap. The riders persevered through the gallop-out of this all-important breeze.
Trainer Pletcher said, “It was a solid move. I got them in :23 and one for the last quarter. I was in touch with them on the radio and we had that scary moment when the siren went off (a workmate of an Oaks horse on the track lost the rider) just as they were at the wire so I alerted them. But I saw they picked up the loose horse right away and I was able to let them know about that, too.”
POST POSITION DRAW: Trainer Todd Pletcher: "I’m happy with (his post)."
May 7, Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs, 1 1/4 Mile.
Pioneer of Medina finished 19th, beaten 57 lengths, after running mid-pack to the far turn before suddenly retreating.
QUOTES
Todd Pletcher: "Pioneer of Medina got hot in the paddock. I didn’t get much of a line on him in the race."
Joe Bravo: “He’ll have better days to shine.”
RATTLE N ROLL (KY) (AE) 22 ML 30-1
Derby Points: 20
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $356,500
Jockey:
Trainer: Kenneth G. McPeek
Owner: Lucky Seven Stable (Michael J. Mackin)
Breeder: St. Simon Place
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Connect (Curlin, Bullville Belle)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Jazz Tune (Johannesburg, Rap and Dance)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 2-4-4-0-0 (10) 4.00
Foal Date: April 12, 2019
Auction Price(s):
$55,000 Keeneland November 2019
$210,000 Keeneland September 2020
Arrival at Churchill Downs: On or about April 10. Barn 6.
March 26, Louisiana Derby, Fair Grounds, 1 3/16 Mile.
Rattle N Roll, who was seventh early and thereafter made up no ground on the front pace, edged Galt and Call Me Midnight to run fourth. Epicenter proved rateable after winning two races at the track in front-running fashion. Drawn in the sixth post position, Epicenter broke alertly but was beaten into the first turn by Zozos and Florenet Geroux, who rolled to the front end in 23.27, 47.35, and 1:11.69 for six furlongs.
Epicenter backed off and ran on the rail while Pioneer of Medina, ridden by Tyler Gaffalione, chased Zozos entering the stretch. That's when Rosario angled out Epicenter to daylight and powered past rivals to win by 2 1/2 lengths in 1:54.38.
QUOTES
No post-race connections quotes available.
April 9, Toyota Blue Grass Stakes, Keeneland, 1 1/8 Mile. Rattle N Roll finished sixth, beaten 10 3/4 lengths after trailing the field of 11 the first half-mile.
QUOTES
Kenny McPeek: "Brian (Hernandez) said he was getting out a little. The horse has had a little trouble with his mouth on and off so that is something we will take a look at. We will probably have to regroup with him."
April 13 NOTE: Next target is probably the Matt Winn Stakes on June 12.
April 23 Churchill Downs Fast
48.40 Breezing 14/84
April 30 Churchill Downs Fast
48.80 Breezing 70/133
May 1 NOTE: Rattle N Roll will be entered in the Kentucky Derby as an also-eligible.
May 2 NOTE:
Was scratched.
RICH STRIKE (KY) (AE) 21 ML 30-1
Derby Points: 21
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $74,500
Jockey: Sonny Leon
Trainer: Eric Reed
Owner: RED TR-Racing, LLC (Richard Dawson)
Breeder: Calumet Farm
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Keen Ice (Curlin, Medomak)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Gold Strike (CAN) (Smart Strike (CAN), Brassy Gold (CAN))
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 5-8-11-0-0 (24) 3.36
Foal Date: April 25, 2019
Auction Price(s): NA
Arrival at Churchill Downs: On or about April 20. Barn 21.
April 2, Jeff Ruby Steaks, Turfway Park, 1 1/8 Mile.
Rich Strike, sent off at odds of 26-1, rallied from last under Sonny Leon to get up for third, three-quarters of a length in front of the pacesetting Dowagiac Chief. Tiz the Bomb registered an explosive 2 1/4-length victory favored at 8-5 in the 11-horse field. He was unhurried early away from the gate and settled into a three-wide position in midpack down the backstretch under Brian Hernandez Jr. Dowagiac Chief sprinted to take command and led the charge through lively opening splits of 23.25 and 47.06. It was past the half-mile pole where Tiz the Bomb rallied, and Hernandez was a mere passenger as the colt mowed past horses into the far turn and struck the front at the top of the lane with the six furlongs clocked in 1:11.38. Repelling a challenge from Tawny Port at the eighth pole, Tiz the Bomb cruised to the wire in a hand ride, stopping the timer in 1:48.60.
April 16 KEENELAND Fast
48.00 Breezing 10106
April 27 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
59.60 Breezing 3/9
May 6 NOTE: Drew in to the Derby field.
May 7, Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs, 1 1/4 Mile. After the break from post 20, Sonny Leon immediately took Rich Strike toward the inside where he raced between horses in the run down the backstretch. On the far turn, Rich Strike maintained his inside position and was still 18th entering the turn. At the top of the stretch, Rich Strike was in 15th place but had advanced to within 4 3/4 lengths of a narrow lead held by Epicenter. Nearing the eighth pole, he came off the rail to split a tiring Messier and Crown Pride for clear sailing while still four lengths in arrears. He ran down Epicenter and Zandon in the final 50 yards.
Trainer Eric Reed got his first Kentucky Derby win after Rich Strike drew into the race as an also-eligible following the defection of Ethereal Road from the field. Rich Strike had 21 Kentucky Derby points, 20 of them earned by finishing third in the Jeff Ruby Steaks. He wore number 21 in the race and is housed in barn 21 on the backside of Churchill Downs. Rich Strike became the second-longest odds winner of the Kentucky Derby at 80-1 odds.
The Derby was the eighth career start for Rich Strike, who had earned $111,299 going into the race. His sole win had come on the dirt in a $30,000 maiden claiming race at Churchill Downs last September while being campaigned by owner-breeder Calumet Farm and trainer Joe Sharp. He was claimed out of that race by the Derby-winning owner, RED Tr-racing. Rich Strike's other two dirt efforts yielded losses by a combined 17 1/2 lengths before he was switched to synthetic track at Turfway Park, where he ran three times, hitting the board twice but losing by a combined 12 lengths.
The victory was worth $1,860,000 and increased Rich Strike's overall winnings to $1,971,289 and a record of two wins and three thirds from eight starts.
QUOTES
Eric Reed: “He passed them all. I’m elated. I’m happy because this horse trained good enough to win. This rider (Sonny Leon) has been on him all along as he learned the process. He taught him to go between horses. He taught me how to train horses (pointing to his father, Herbert). I’m surrounded by the best. I didn’t think I could win necessarily but I knew if he got it, they’d know who he was when the race was over.”
Sonny Leon: “You know we had a difficult post but I know the horse. I didn’t know if he could win but I had a good feeling with him. I had to wait until the stretch and that’s what I did. I waited and then the rail opened up. I wasn’t nervous, I was excited. Nobody knows my horse like I know my horse.”
SIMPLIFICATION (FL) POST 13 ML 20-1
Derby Points: 74
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $482,150
Jockey: Jose Ortiz
Trainer: Antonio Sano
Owner: Tami Bobo
Breeder: France Weiner & Irwin Weiner
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Not This Time (Giant's Causeway, Miss Macy Sue)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Simply Confection (Candy Ride (ARG), Ballado's Halo)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 1-0-9-0-0 (10) 1.22
Foal Date: Feb. 29, 2019
Auction Price(s): $50,000 Keeneland November 2019
Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 30. Barn 41.
April 2, Florida Derby, Gulfstream Park, 1 1/8 Mile. White Abarrio punched his ticket for Louisville when he laid off a fast early pace, took the lead in the stretch and held off Charge It by 1 3/4 length to win. As the 5-2 second betting choice, he fought off a strong challenge by Todd Pletcher-trained Charge It by 1 3/4 lengths. Simplification, the 2-1 favorite who finished second in the Holy Bull and won the Fountain of Youth, took the lead leaving the backstretch but was unable to withstand the bids by White Abarrio and Charge It, finishing third, a length behind Charge It and 3 /12 lengths ahead of Pappacap, who briefly led running into the far turn. White Abarrio was timed in 1:50.64 to win his fourth race in four starts at Gulfstream.
Meanwhile, White Abarrio rated in fifth under Tyler Gaffalione behind pacesetter Classic Causeway around the first turn and into the backstretch. Classic Causeway suddenly dropped back out of contention midway through the backstretch, where Simplistic took a brief lead with Pappacap applying heavy pressure. Simplistic took the lead into the stretch under Jose Ortiz, only to be passed by White Abarrio, who made a three-wide sweep on the turn into the stretch. Charge It saved ground into the stretch before making a determined run, only to fall short under Luis Saez.
QUOTES
Antonio Sano: “I’m so happy today. We made the decision to run near the front today, because [Classic Causeway] was speed and [Pappacap] all the time is behind me. Jose and I talked this morning and we said the last three-eighths you move the horse. I’m just so happy with him. He’s very good. It’s very important he ran well, and comes back well."
THE NEXT DAY:
Antonio Sano: “I am so happy with the race because the horse ran well and came back well. The plan was to be up front, but the pressure from Pappacap outside made Jose move the horse before it was time. It was a good field and my horse ran very good. In the Kentucky Derby, I believe he will run great."
April 15, 2022 GULFSTREAM PARK Fast
1:01.83 Breezing 4/6
April 15 NOTE: Simplification is scheduled to work the next two Fridays at Gulfstream before shipping to Churchill Downs April 29. Trainer Sano said of today's workout, “He galloped out six furlongs in 1:15.3, the seven furlongs in 1:27 and the mile in 1:40. Excellent. I’m so happy with my horse. He went very easy and came back well.” Junior Alvarado was aboard for the breeze.
April 16 NOTE: Trainer Sano told DRF, “He worked very well. He went very easy, very quiet. It was a different work than the one before the Florida Derby, when he went too speedy. He galloped out very nicely today. Just the way we wanted.” Junior Alvarado was aboard. Sano said he expects Jose Ortiz to have the Derby mount.
April 21 NOTE: It's official: Jose Ortiz will ride Simplification in the Derby.
April 22 GULFSTREAM PARK Fast
59:42 Breezing 4/17
April 22 NOTE:
Simplification galloped out a mile in 1:37.52 under a near-motionless Junior Alvarado. Trainer Sano said, “I’m so happy. The work was impressive. He did it very handily, very easy. Junior worked the horse.
He told me, ‘Your horse wins the Derby.
I’m so proud of my horse. I know the race is a strong race, but my horse is working very good. I want to win the race for Gulfstream. One more work (set for five furlongs) next Friday, and then he’ll go to Kentucky. When he’s in Kentucky he won’t work. He’ll only gallop."
Over at DRF, Mike Welsch got the horse going six furlongs in 1:11.95 and seven-eighths in 1:24.10 before easing but not pulling up after a mile in 1:37.52 over a track that Welsch said was on the quick side. According to his report, Simplification was pulling up after a mile and a quarter.
April 28 NOTE: Simplification is scheduled to work Friday at Gulfstream Park.
April 29 GULFSTREAM PARK Muddy
Distance: Five furlongs
1.00:44 Breezing 1/10
VIDEO
April 29 NOTE: Simplification went the first three furlongs in 37.00 per info sent to DRF's Mike Welsch, who is here at Churchill Downs. He was out six furlongs in 1.12:80 and a mile in 1.38.60. Another big gallop-out for Simplification. Trainer Sano said, “I’m very happy with the work. He went very easy and handled everything. The jockey said he was better than last week. It was a really, really good work for the horse. I am 100-percent confident in my horse. I know the race is very strong, but I’m confident in the horse. I think this is a better horse than Gunnevera.”
April 30 NOTE: Simplification arrived at Churchill Downs early this afternoon following a van ride from Gulfstream Park in South Florida. Trainer Sano is scheduled to arrive in Louisville Sunday afternoon, and Simplification will go to the track Monday morning.
May 1 NOTE: Simplification will make his first appearance on the track Monday morning at 7:30. Trainer Antonio Sano is scheduled to arrive in Louisville this afternoon.
May 7, Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs, 1 1/4 Mile. Simplification finished fourth, beaten 3 1/2 lengths, after making a long rally from 15th after the first six furlongs.
QUOTES
Antonio Sano: “We were pretty far back early but he made a huge run. We’re very proud about the effort.”
Jose Ortiz: “When I wanted to run I had room to run. I had a perfect trip.”
SMILE HAPPY (KY) POST 5 ML 20-1
Derby Points: 70
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $499,410
Jockey: Corey Lanerie
Trainer: Kenny McPeek
Owner: Lucky Seven Stable (Michael J. Mackin)
Breeder: : Moreau Bloodstock Int'l Inc. & White Bloodstock LLC
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Runhappy (Super Saver, Bella Jolie)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Pleasant Smile (Pleasant Tap, Relax and Smile)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 2-6-5-2-1 (16) 1.91
Foal Date: Feb. 20, 2019
Auction Price(s): $175,000 Keeneland November 2019, $185,000 Fasig-Tipton Select 2020
Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 11. Barn 6.
Feb. 19, Risen Star Stakes, Fair Grounds, 1 1/8 Mile.
To win, Epicenter just had to run his race a little better, and he did. An easy winner of the Gun Runner Stakes earlier in the Fair Grounds meet, Epicenter set fast fractions only to be beaten a nose in January’s Lecomte Stakes by longshot closer Call Me Midnight. With his front-running style, Epicenter controlled the pace in the Risen Star and won under Joel Rosario.
Breaking alertly from the five-hole, Epicenter needed little urging to open up a length on Pioneer of Medina in fractions of 23.79 and 47.97. After a comfortable six furlongs in 1:12.25, Epicenter was able to skip away in the long stretch with a final time of 1:49.03 on a fast track. He cruised under the wire 2-3/4 lengths ahead of the late-running favorite Smile Happy, who had a bit of traffic trouble under Corey Lanerie in his first start off the layoff. Zandon finished a half-length back in third in the 10-horse field after a horrible break from the gate.
Pioneer of Medina ran fourth followed by Tawny Port, Slow Down Andy, Trafalgar, Pappacap, Bodock and Russian Tank.
QUOTES
Corey Lanerie: (Smile Happy) “About the 3/8ths pole to the 5/16ths I was wanting to get out and start to make my run a little sooner than I was able to. I felt like I was still running the time I got out to the end (finish line), so if I had gotten out when I had wanted to, I would have liked to see the outcome. But he ran fabulous and he has some points now.”
April 9, Toyota Blue Grass Stakes, Keeneland, 1 1/8 Mile.
On a track rated muddy, Zandon and Flavien Prat roared past favored Smile Happy, ridden by Corey Lanerie, approaching the sixteenth pole and drew off to a 2 1/2-length victory on a cold afternoon. Zandon was timed in 1:50.35. Emmanuel, with Luis Saez aboard, grabbed the lead out of the gate and led through fractions of 24.04 and 48.39 while being tracked by Golden Glider, with Smile Happy in the clear racing third and Zandon far back in the pack.
The top three remained unchanged going into the far turn as Zandon was still last while racing between horses. On the turn, Prat began to weave his way through the field, and on the front end Lanerie sent Smile Happy after Emmanuel. At the top of the stretch, Smile Happy brushed with Emmanuel as he surged to the front. Behind him Zandon had clear sailing in his pursuit. Smile Happy maintained the advantage passing the eighth pole but could not hold off Zandon. Emmanuel stayed on for third, beaten 6 1/4 lengths. It was another half-length back to Golden Glider in fourth with Trademark, Rattle N Roll, Ethereal Road, Commandperformance, Blackadder, Volcanic and Fenwick following in that order.
QUOTES
Corey Lanerie: “I had a great trip. When I turned for home, I didn’t think anybody could beat him. He went so easy through the half-mile and the fractions were nice. He had his ears up and he was happy. I called on him and he kept going. The other horse was just better than us today.”
Kenny McPeek: “I am not disappointed whatsoever. I thought the timing of this race was good. I think the next race will be his best race. He got a little tired at the end. We will see how much water he drinks and how he is. This is a really good horse. This is only his fourth career start. I feel like I could win the Derby or the Preakness with this horse. The only horse I was worried about is the one who won.
“That was part of the plan, to ask him early and let him get in position and not be as far back as he was (in his last start.) He is tactical. He can be up close, not necessarily on the lead, but he can be right off the pacesetters.
April 13 NOTE: Trainer McPeek told DRF, “The winner was impressive, and I thought he really liked that surface. Our colt was maybe slipping and sliding a little bit in it, but it was a solid race. It was all we needed. We needed points.”
April 23 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
1.00:40 Breezing 12/70
April 23 NOTE:
Tiz the Bomb and Smile Happy breezed in company. Smile Happy and Corey Lanerie began the work about one length in front of Brian Hernandez Jr. and Tiz the Bomb. Hernandez and Tiz the Bomb moved to the outside of Smile Happy and finished in tandem at the wire.
Trainer McPeek said, “We were just looking for an easy move today and we got that. We’ll probably do the same thing again next week.”
April 26 NOTE: Smile Happy and Tiz the Bomb worked together last Saturday, and their final pre-Derby drill is penciled in for this Saturday, when it could rain. Trainer McPeek said, “I don’t worry about things I can’t control,” McPeek said. “I would have no problem working on an off track here.”
April 28 NOTE: Smile Happy is scheduled to work Saturday.
April 30 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
48.00 Breezing 28/130
VIDEO
COREY LANERIE and BRIAN HERNANDEZ, JR VIDEO
KENNY McPEEK VIDEO
April 30 NOTE:
Tiz the Bomb (inside under Brian Hernandez, Jr.) stayed ahead of Smile Happy (outside under Corey Lanerie). Both were timed in 23.80 for a quarter and 48.00 for four furlongs, out five in 1:00.20. Smile Happy caught up with his workmate further out in the gallop-out. Jockey Lanerie said, “In the Blue Grass, that track was tiring. I was disappointed when he let that horse come and get him so easy. But I think he’s doing better than ever. I like our chances. I hope we get a good, clean break, and find a good position going into the first turn. Hopefully I’d like to be no further back than fifth or sixth, and get a good, clean trip. But it’s the Derby, you never know.”
April 30 NOTE: It's been a long day. I just noticed while watching the Works Show that Smile Happy, who's been galloping with a shadow roll this week, worked today without the shadow roll.
POST POSITION DRAW: Trainer Kenny McPeek: “I’m real pleased with both Smile Happy in the five and Tiz the Bomb in the nine. I wanted to be inside Zandon, and that happened. They’ll be fine, in both their spots."
May 7, Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs, 1 1/4 Mile.
Smile Happy finished eighth, beaten 10 lengths, after running in mid-pack most of the race.
QUOTES
Kenny McPeek: “What a crazy Derby. I’ll have to watch the replay and see how it all unfolded.”
Corey Lanerie: “I had a good trip. Broke clean and had a smooth run through the first turn. I was right with Epicenter when we came to the quarter pole. I popped out to try to go around but just didn't have enough horse. He gave out on me a little bit, so just maybe the distance.”
SUMMER IS TOMORROW (KY) POST 4 ML 30-1
Derby Points: 40
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $200,000. Career: $267,606
Jockey: Mickael Barzalona
Trainer: Bhupat Seemar
Owner: Michael Hilary Burke & Negar Burke
Breeder: Brereton C. Jones
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Summer Front (War Front, Rose of Summer)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Always Tomorrow (Badge of Silver, Glory Dancer (CAN))
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 3-4-5-2-0 (14) 2.11
Foal Date: April 24, 2019
Auction Price(s):
$25,000 Keeneland November 2019
RNA $14,000 Keeneland September 2020
$169,743 Arquana Deauville Breeze Up 2021
Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 23. Quarantine Barn 2.
March 26, UAE Derby, Meydan, About 1 3/16 Mile.
Japan connections had a very good day, including this race as Crown Pride ground out a classy victory in the hands of Damian Lane. On a day when being close to the pace was working well, local hope Summer Is Tomorrow made the running and was travelling smoothly as the field entered the homestretch. Out a little wider, however, loomed Crown Pride from off the pace, and the pair separated from the field out for a duel.
At the furlong marker, Summer Is Tomorrow appeared to have the measure of his rival, but his stride shortened and the Crown Pride’s reserve of stamina showed inside the final 100 meters for a victory by 2 3/4 lengths over the pacesetter. Island Falcon closed well to finish third, getting by Beendoog by 3/4 lengths and 1 1/4 length back of the place horse.
The winning time was 1:59.76.
Order of finish: Crown Pride, Summer Is Tomorrow, Island Falcon, Bendoog, Quality Boone, Reiwa Homare, Kiefer, Sekifu, Azure Coast, Withering, Combustion, Arabian Gazelles, Gilded Age, Irwin, Get Back Goldie, Pinehurst
Track notes
Crown Pride: Tracked leaders, led 150m out, ran on well.
Summer is Tomorrow: Soon led, ridden clear 500m out, headed 200m out, ran on
Island Falcon: Mid-division, ran on well final 400m, nearest finish
Bendoog: Tracked leaders, every chance 500m out, ran on same pace final 400m
QUOTES
Bhupat Seemar, trainer of runner-up Summer Is Tomorrow: “I'd definitely consider the Kentucky Derby, but I'd have to see if he's nominated or not first of all (he's not). That's the biggest thing. Why not though? There were some good horses behind him, a couple of Grade 1 horses from America, so now that he's had that run, I think we'd have to think about it."
The deadline for late nominations as he spoke as in two days.
"This horse eats well, trains well, sleeps well – he is the perfect horse to have for any owner or trainer. Maybe we should have gone to the Guineas first, and if he had a little bit of a longer race in him, he would have finished a little closer. The furthest he'd gone before today was seven furlongs, but he'd shown so much natural speed. At least we have a good horse for next year. He's been sprinting before, so pace comes naturally, the only thing was that the track was playing for speed as well, so we thought we might have a little crack at it. Turning for home when he was still travelling, I thought he would pick up a little bit more but without that longer race to condition him, he just gave out.
Jockey quote unavailable.
April 25 NOTE:
Summer is Tomorrow arrived at Churchill Downs two days ago and had his first exercise on the track yesterday. He is scheduled to work Sunday with gate and paddock schooling on the agenda, said Caroline Seemar, whose husband is the trainer Bhupat Seemar. He is scheduled to arrive in Louisville Wednesday.
Mickael Barzalona has the Derby mount.
Caroline Seemar said, “This is a big eye opener for him. We have a private track at home, and this is like a festival for him.”
April 26 NOTE: Summer Is Tomorrow is scheduled to work Sunday.
April 28 NOTE: Summer Is Tomorrow is still scheduled to work Sunday. He galloped and had a paddock schooling session under the supervision of trainer Bhupat Seemar, a former Bob Baffert assistant for War Emblem's Derby in 2002. He said, “Do all the homework now and get the prize next Saturday. It has been a long time, but that wasn’t my first Derby. I was here as a spectator for Charismatic (1999).”
April 30 NOTE: Trainer Seemar said, “I like what I have seen so here so far. I usually work five days out from a race, and I wanted to keep on the same schedule. It has been a long journey, and it will be 11 days between works. He is putting weight back on, and I wanted to give him an extra day.”
May 1 NOTE: Summer Is Tomrrow is scheduled to breeze a half-mile Monday morning with Caroline Seemar, wife of trainer Seemar, to handle the work. The trainer said after rain turned the track muddy, “I am glad we did not work today. God is looking out for us.”
May 2 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
49:20 Breezing 6/21
May 2 NOTE: Splits were 13.60 and 25.80, so he finished well. Out five furlongs in 1:02.00.
May 7, Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs, 1 1/4 Mile.
Summer Is Tomorrow finished 20th and last, beaten 64 1/2 lengths, after setting a fast early pace.
QUOTES
Bhupat Seemar: Couldn’t be reached for comment.
Mickael Barzalona: “He’s a perfect six- to seven-furlong horse. Today, we got pressure early on and the backstretch and I couldn’t save him as I did in Dubai last time.”
TAIBA (KY) POST 12 ML 12-1
Derby Points: 100
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $$450,000
Jockey: Mike Smith
Trainer: Tim Yakteen
Owner: Zedan Racing Stables, Inc.
Breeder: Bruce C. Ryan
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Gun Runner (Candy Ride (ARG), Quiet Giant)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Needmore Flattery (Flatter, Kiosk)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 2-2-8-0-0 (12) 2.00
Foal Date: April 13, 2019
Auction Price(s):
$140,000 Fasig-Tipton October 2020
$1,700,000 Fasig-Tipson Florida March 2021
Arrival at Churchill Downs: May 1. Barn 37.
April 9, Grade I Santa Anita Derby, Santa Anita, 1 1/8 Mile.
With stable mate Messier in control under John Velazaquez after overtaking pacesetter Forbidden Kingdom, Taiba wheeled three-wide at the top of the lane and assumed command approaching the sixteenth pole to score a scintillating 2 1/4-length victory got the distance in 1:48.67. Mike Smith was aboard the winner.
As expected, Forbidden Kingdom and Juan Hernandez went straight to the front, but he was pressed every step of the way by Messier through early fractions of 23.23, 46.66 and 1:10.93. A quarter mile from home, Messier put Forbidden Kingdom away and led at the furlong marker in a time of 1:35.97, but he was no match for the winner late. Forbidden Kingdom faded to finish sixth and last, beaten 14 1/2 lengths. Ridden by Abel Cedillo, Happy Jack was off at 26-1 and paid $4.20 to show.
It was Taiba's second career start. A 7 1/2-length winner first-out going six furlongs March 5, Taiba was the third choice in a field of six at 4-1.
QUOTES
Mike Smith: “When one comes along like that, he showed he was really good. He didn’t really get away very well. In the first turn, I didn’t want to get in the way. I wasn’t in any hurry. I felt the others would do the dirty work for me and it set up just fine. He showed just how special he is. He belongs with anyone. He just recovers really well. I’m not getting any younger. As I get older, I have felt that something special is going to happen. This just may lead to that. The sky’s the limit.”
Tim Yakteen: “You could have poured me out of a shot glass earlier, but these two horses (Taiba, Messier) represented me unbelievably in this race and I’m just absolutely thrilled, floored with the effort that Taiba put forth. That was a sensational race, he’s just a super horse."
THE NEXT DAY:
Trainer Yakteen said, “All my runners from yesterday have come out in excellent shape. Amr (Zedan)was just over the moon. All the credit obviously has to go to him (for running the horse), because in my professional opinion, I advised him to take a different route in Taiba’s next start. But Amr made an educated decision, based on the information that was given him, and it resulted in a big payday. All the credit goes to him on this.”
Santa Anita morning line maker Jon White: “To win the nine furlong Santa Anita Derby with only one six furlong race under his belt is without a doubt one of the greatest accomplishments that I have seen at Santa Anita since my first year here as a DRF writer in 1981."
April 13 NOTE: Credit Steve Andersen of DRF with this research: Taiba could be the first horse to win the Kentucky Derby in his third start since Leonatus in 1883. No horse has started in the Kentucky Derby with so little experience since China Visit finished sixth in 2000.
April 15 NOTE: Trainer Yakteen said, “Both horses (Messier and Taiba) are back to the track and look great. I’ll probably work them next Friday and plan on shipping to Churchill the weekend before (either April 30 or May 1).”
April 23 NOTE: Taiba will not work this weekend. Trainer Yakteen told DRF, “He took the race well, but it was a hard race, and I want to make sure he’s energetic. He doesn’t need much to be fit. I want to go in on the fresher side. He’ll work Thursday or Friday this coming week. I’ll give him a few stronger gallops.”
April 26 VIDEO: Mike Smith
April 27 VIDEO: Tim Yakteen
April 28, 2022 SANTA ANITA PARK Fast
1.12:80 Handily 1/4
April 28 NOTE: Trainer Yakteen said, “It was very straight forward. He worked three-quarters from the five-eighth pole. It was a typical Taiba work and we accomplished what we wanted. I got him in 1:12.60 and out in 1:26. We’re good.” Drayden Van Dyke was aboard Taiba who worked in company with the 4-year-old American Admiral. Taiba is set to be flown Sunday to Indianapolis, followed by a van ride to Churchill Downs.
April 29 NOTE: Trainer Yakteen said, “I’ll play it by ear and see what I want to do. It was a perfectly scripted drill for Taiba Thursday and for Messier today. We’re all set; we’re good. I’ll go into Churchill, read the horses and see if I want to do anything there. But since Taiba’s work was a day before Messier’s, I might breeze him in Kentucky or let him stretch his legs a little bit there. If I want to just gallop into the race, I’ll gallop into the race.”
April 30 NOTE: Trainer Yakteen said, “Messier just walked the shed today. Taiba had a jog day today, and we had jockey Ryan Curatolo do the honors. He (Tabia) looked great on the track.”
May 1 NOTE: Taiba is expected at Churchill Downs this afternoon at about 3:00 ET.
POST POSITION DRAW: Trainer Tim Yakteen:
“They made us wait (said in jest, Messier and Taiba were among the last three horses chosen). But in the end we drew well."
May 4 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
38:40 Breezing 4/6
I will post a video if it is made available. It can be viewed at the May 4 Works show link on the Home page.
May 4 NOTE: Taiba also blew out three furlongs three days before he won the Santa Anita Derby. Taiba has not raced with blinkers, and he will not have an equipment change in the Derby, but he breezed with blinkers today as he did at Santa Anita on April 28.
May 7, Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs, 1 1/4 Mile.
Taiba finished 12th, beaten 17 2/3 lengths, after running three or four lengths off a hot early pace in sixth, fifth, seventh and eighth position, for the first mile.
QUOTES
Tim Yakteen: Couldn’t be reached for comment.
Mike Smith: “He was a little bad with the dirt (being kicked in his face) but it is what it is. He didn’t embarrass himself.”
TAWNY PORT (KY) POST 18 ML 20-1
Derby Points: 60
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $351,400
Jockey: Ricardo Santana, Jr.
Trainer: Brad H. Cox
Owner: Peachtree Stable
Breeder: WinStar Farm, LLC
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Pioneerof the Nile (Empire Maker, Star of Goshen)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Livi Makenzie (Macho Uno, Greta's Joy)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 3-3-4-0-0 (10) 4.00
Foal Date: March 21, 2019
Auction Price(s): $430,000 Keeneland September 2020
Arrival at Churchill Downs: Arrived prior to Lexington Stakes. Barn 22
April 2, Jeff Ruby Steaks, Turfway Park, 1 1/8 Mile.
Tawny Port ran a respectable second. Tiz the Bomb registered an explosive 2 1/4-length victory. Tiz the Bomb, favored at 8-5 in the 11-horse field, was unhurried early away from the gate and settled into a three-wide position in midpack down the backstretch under Brian Hernandez Jr. Dowagiac Chief sprinted to take command and led the charge through lively opening splits of 23.25 and 47.06. It was past the half-mile pole where Tiz the Bomb rallied, and Hernandez was a mere passenger as the colt mowed past horses into the far turn and struck the front at the top of the lane with the six furlongs clocked in 1:11.38. Repelling a challenge from Tawny Port at the eighth pole, Tiz the Bomb cruised to the wire in a hand ride, stopping the timer in 1:48.60. Rich Strike , sent off at odds of 26-1, rallied from last to get up for third, three-quarters of a length in front of the pacesetting Dowagiac Chief.
QUOTES
Unavailable.
April 10 NOTE: Trainer Cox said Tawny Port is definitely under consideration for the Stonestreet Lexington Stakes.
April 13 NOTE: Trainer Cox told DRF he just wants to see how Tawny Port does on the dirt.
April 16, Stonestreet Lexington Stakes, Keeneland, 1 1/16 Mile. Tawny Port came from off the pace, never more than 3 3/4 lengths off a pace of 23.85, 48.01 and 1:12.45 set by second finisher Major General, to win by a length in 1:45.24 under Florent Geroux. He finished up the race, the final 5 1/6 mile, in 32.34 on a track rated good.
QUOTES
Florent Geroux: “He needed the race. (The Risen Star) was his only start on the dirt, was definitely the key for the Kentucky Derby . It looked like every horse who ran in there all came back and ran some very strong races, so we were hoping to do the same thing. He that today, in a very powerful way at the high end on the dirt. Looks like the distance should be no problem, and I hope the connections will take a swing at it.”
Brad Cox: “He responded today. There was a little bit of a question mark with how well he would handle the dirt. He ran well at the Fair Grounds. Florent came back and had positive comments after that race, and I thought, ‘Well, you know, right now, maybe you try to go in the Jeff Ruby Steaks.’ So that’s what we did, and he ran a real respectable race. Then we found ourselves nominated to this race and it worked out today.
“We’ll see how he comes out of it. I’d like to congratulate John and Elizabeth Fort (Peachtree Stable). This was John’s idea, to come back in two weeks immediately after the Jeff Ruby. He said, ‘We need to look at this race,’ and I said, ‘Well, I nominated him.’ We watched him and he seemed to have a great energy level and his weight’s great. He’s a good-looking colt – really good-looking. He picked him out.”
April 27 NOTE: Tawny Port visited the Churchill Downs starting gate and had a 1 1/2-mile gallop at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday.
April 28 NOTE: Trainer Cox said Tawny Port will work Saturday.
April 30 NOTE:
Ricardo Santana, Jr. named to ride Tawny Port.
April 30 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
1.01:60 Breezing 30/57
VIDEO
POST POSITION DRAW: Trainer Brad Cox: “I’m happy with all three draws (Cyberknife, Tawyny Port, Zozos). I think with the Derby starting at the head of the stretch, and a quarter of a mile to the first turn, they’ll be able to get into position.”
May 7, Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs, 1 1/4 Mile. Tawny Port finished seventh, beaten 4 3/4 lengths and headed by Barber Road, after running in 14th the first six furlongs.
QUOTES
Brad Cox: “Tawny Port finished up OK. No doubt that was a really hot pace. No matter how good you look breezing or in the mornings, you have to have the right setup."
Ricardo Santana Jr.; “I can’t ask for a better trip. I had a good trip but he got tired. He came back pretty quick from his last race. The extra distance next time could help.”
TIZ THE BOMB (KY) POST 9 ML 30-1
Derby Points: 110
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $1,012,610
Jockey: Brian Hernandez, Jr.
Trainer: Kenneth G. McPeek
Owner: Magdalena Racing, Lessee (Sherri McPeek, et al)
Breeder: Spendthrift Farm, LLC
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Hit It A Bomb (War Front, Liscanna (IRE))
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Tiz the Key (Tiznow, Cabbage Key)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 3-5-10-2-0 (20) 1.86
Foal Date: Feb. 2, 2019
Auction Price(s): $350,000 Fasig-Tipton Select 2020
Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 14. Barn 6.
April 2, Jeff Ruby Steaks, Turfway Park, 1 1/8 Mile.
Tiz the Bomb registered an explosive 2 1/4-length victory coming after a poor effort on dirt in the Holy Bull eight weeks prior followed by a win of the Battaglia at Turfway. Last year, he had a failed debut effort on dirt and a maiden win in an off-the-turf dirt race at Ellis Park before being moved to turf, where he was successful in stakes company.
Tiz the Bomb, favored at 8-5 in the 11-horse field, was unhurried early away from the gate and settled into a three-wide position in midpack down the backstretch under Brian Hernandez Jr. Dowagiac Chief sprinted to take command and led the charge through lively opening splits of 23.25 and 47.06. It was past the half-mile pole where Tiz the Bomb rallied, and Hernandez was a mere passenger as the colt mowed past horses into the far turn and struck the front at the top of the lane with the six furlongs clocked in 1:11.38. Repelling a challenge from Tawny Port at the eighth pole, Tiz the Bomb cruised to the wire in a hand ride, stopping the timer in 1:48.60. Rich Strike, sent off at odds of 26-1, rallied from last to get up for third, three-quarters of a length in front of the pacesetting Dowagiac Chief.
QUOTES
Ken McPeek: "He's really special. He just clicks along. He does his work, he has good energy, eats good, and he's just a real pleasure to be around. It's going to be interesting. He didn't handle the sand in his face in Florida, but of course that's a different surface. From what we do from here on will be interesting; we have a lot of options. I do think he's a better grass horse than he is a dirt horse. There's some time, and we don't have to make a decision right away and when we do, we'll make the best one."
Brian Hernandez, Jr.: "He was the best horse today. We were a little wide but I was never really concerned about it because he was traveling like he was the best horse. When I called on him turning for home, he switched leads and went on about his business like we thought he would."
April 4 NOTE: Tiz the Bomb confirmed for Kentucky Derby.
April 13 NOTE: Trainer McPeek told DRF Tiz the Bomb could have his first workout since the Jeff Ruby on April 16.
April 16 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
48:40 Breezing 15/74
April 16 NOTE: At about 7:30 on a track rated good, Tiz the Bomb breezed with Brian Hernandez Jr. in the irons. The duo clipped an opening quarter-mile in 24.20 and galloped out five furlongs in 1:01.20.
April 23 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
1.00:20 Breezing 8/70
KEN MCPEEK VIDEO
April 23 NOTE:
Tiz the Bomb and Smile Happy breezed in company. Smile Happy and Corey Lanerie began the work about one length in front of Brian Hernandez Jr. and Tiz the Bomb. Hernandez and Tiz the Bomb moved to the outside of Smile Happy and finished in tandem at the wire.
My buddy in Louisville, Mike Overstreet, read today that Tiz the Bomb has won at all of Kentucky's tracks except Churchill Downs: Ellis Park, Keeneland, Kentucky Downs and Turfway Park.
Trainer McPeek said, “We were just looking for an easy move today and we got that. We’ll probably do the same thing again next week.”
April 26 NOTE: Smile Happy and Tiz the Bomb worked together last Saturday, and their final pre-Derby drill is penciled in for this Saturday, when it could rain. Trainer McPeek said, “I don’t worry about things I can’t control,” McPeek said. “I would have no problem working on an off track here.”
April 28 NOTE:
Tiz the Bomb is scheduled to work Saturday.Tiz the Bomb
April 30 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
48.00 Breezing 28/130
BRIAN HERNANDEZ, JR and COREY LANERIE VIDEO
April 30 NOTE: Tiz the Bomb (inside under Brian Hernandez, Jr.) stayed ahead of Smile Happy (outside under Corey Lanerie). Both were timed in 23.80 for a quarter and 48.00 for four furlongs, out five in 1:00.20. Smile Happy caught up with his workmate further out in the gallop-out.
Jockey Hernandez said, “I had him at 12s all the way around. Just kind of a maintenance half the Saturday before Derby. Just one of those deals that he did his half and galloped out just like we wanted him to. Now it’s all about getting to the Derby in good order. Last week, I was on Tiz the Bomb, and we broke off about a half-length behind Smile Happy. Today we were supposed to swap places, but when we got to the pole, Smile Happy was a little further back than we thought he would be. So I went on and worked my horse like I thought he needed to be worked. It wasn’t quite the work that Kenny was looking for, but it looked like both horses got what they needed out of it. Once you’re in the process of working, you don’t want to stop and make it perfect. Sometimes you’ve got to call an audible and unfortunately that’s what we had to do today. The biggest thing is you don’t want to overdo it -- and blow your race in the morning.”
Trainer McPeek said, “It’s like the coach who calls the play, and everybody is supposed to do this and that, but that’s not what we called. Corey said he was worried about Brian’s horse getting a little keen in front of him. He was afraid they were going to go too fast. We wanted a 12s workout, and I think that’s how it played out. I wanted them to go 12s, kind of side by side, and not totally engage. I think they ended up going that, to 48. But no, that’s not the play I called. It happens. Brian’s horse is doing exceptionally well, and Corey was worried they were going to go too fast, because I was adamant that I didn’t want them to go too fast. They didn’t need to go down there in :46.
POST POSITION DRAW: Trainer Kenny McPeek: “I’m real pleased with both Smile Happy in the five and Tiz the Bomb in the nine. I wanted to be inside Zandon, and that happened. They’ll be fine, in both their spots."
May 7, Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs, 1 1/4 Mile.
Tiz the Bomb finished ninth, beaten 12 1/2 lengths, after running in 16th place to the top of the stretch.
QUOTES
Kenny McPeek: “What a crazy Derby. I’ll have to watch the replay and see how it all unfolded.”
Brian Hernandez Jr.: “We didn’t get away from the gate as cleanly as we would like. We ended up a little further back. He ran a pretty good trip, he grinded it out and picked up half the field late.”
WHITE ABARRIO (KY) POST 15 ML 10-1
Derby Points: 112
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $769,650
Jockey: Tyler Gaffalione
Trainer: Saffie A. Joseph, Jr.
Owner: C2 Racing Stable LLC (Clint Cornett) and La Milagrosa Stable, LLC (Antonio Pagnano)
Breeder: Spendthrift Farm, LLC
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Race Day (Tapit, Rebalite)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Catching Diamonds (Into Mischief, Grand Breeze)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 2-5-5-0-0 (12) 3.80
Foal Date: March 18, 2019
Auction Price(s):
$7,500 OBS Winter 2020
$40,000 OBS March 2021
Arrival at Churchill Downs: May 2. Barn 10.
April 2, Florida Derby, Gulfstream Park, 1 1/8 Mile.
White Abarrio punched his ticket for Louisville when he laid off a fast early pace, took the lead in the stretch and held off Charge It by 1 3/4 length to win. As the 5-2 second betting choice, he fought off a strong challenge by Todd Pletcher-trained Charge It by 1 3/4 lengths. Simplification, the 2-1 favorite who finished second in the Holy Bull and won the Fountain of Youth, took the lead leaving the backstretch but was unable to withstand the bids by White Abarrio and Charge It, finishing third, a length behind Charge It and 3 /12 lengths ahead of Pappacap, who briefly led running into the far turn. White Abarrio was timed in 1:50.64 to win his fourth race in four starts at Gulfstream.
Meanwhile, White Abarrio rated in fifth under Tyler Gaffalione behind pacesetter Classic Causeway around the first turn and into the backstretch. Classic Causeway suddenly dropped back out of contention midway through the backstretch, where Simplistic took a brief lead with Pappacap applying heavy pressure. Simplistic took the lead into the stretch under Jose Ortiz, only to be passed by White Abarrio, who made a three-wide sweep on the turn into the stretch. Charge It saved ground into the stretch before making a determined run, only to fall short under Luis Saez.
White Abarrio went into the Florida Derby under less-than-ideal conditions, having spiked a fever early last week that caused him to miss a scheduled workout the previous Sunday. He breezed three furlongs on Tuesday.
QUOTES
Saffie Joseph Jr.: “That’s what good horses do, quality horses. They’re able to overcome trainer errors and when things (don't) go right. This time was different. We didn’t give up fitness. Last time we gave up fitness. Once he comes out good and all being well, we’re going to go to Churchill and keep dreaming. It means the world to me. The Florida Derby is up there with the Kentucky Derby because we’re based at Gulfstream. I’m just thankful and blessed that we have this opportunity. It’s amazing.”
Tyler Gaffalione: "Saffie and I talked before the race. We wanted to be aggressive out of there and get a good position going forward. There was quite a few guys keen on getting position, as well, so we had to take back and drop in a little bit and save some ground, but my horse was traveling well throughout. Coming out of this race, what he showed us today, I definitely gained more confidence in him. We’ll see how he comes back and hopefully all goes well leading into it. I don’t see distance being a problem. This horse, he has so much talent. He just keeps finding more and more. I don’t think we’ve gotten to the bottom of him yet. I don’t even know what to say right now. I feel like I’m on cloud nine. I’m just so thankful and I feel so blessed. This is all my childhood dreams come true. To win the Florida Derby, growing up down here, it’s just so amazing.”
THE NEXT DAY:
Saffie Joseph, Jr.: “Physically, he’s not an overly big horse. He’s filled out and he’s grown a bit. He’s a changed horse. He’s changed from November to now, and he’s showing it on the track. That’s what you want. You want to be improving at this time of year. I feel he’s making forward progressions. He was further back than we envisioned and to see him be able to sit back that far off the pace and make his move, it gives you a lot of confidence, because you know he can run close to the pace and now sit back and be as effective."
April 17 GULFSTREAM PARK Fast
34:55 Breezing 1/41
April 17 NOTE: With Junior Alvarado filling in for Tyler Gaffalione, White Abarrio began his work at the three-eighths marker and posted an 11.34 opening split on the watch of DRF's Mike Welsch. He was out four furlongs in 47.48 and five in 1:00.52. Trainer Joseph said, “That was super. I wanted a decent three-eighths with an extended gallop out, and that’s what we got.”
Joseph told a track publicist, “The way he worked today gives me a lot of confidence – the way he came back and the way he worked first work back – knowing we have three weeks to go. I think we’re in a good position. Three weeks is long time, but I like where we’re at. Visually, it was as impressive as his time. Sometimes he can work quick and not look as impressive, but today, it was an easy work in a quick time."
Alvarado said, “When you work those nice horses, they will fool you. They will go fast when you definitely don’t think you’re going that fast. He was just skipping over the ground. It was like he wasn’t even touching the ground. That was really nothing for him. When he got back to the barn, he wasn’t blowing like he was tired or anything at all.”
April 22 NOTE: White Abarrio is scheduled to breeze three furlongs at Gulfstream Park April 24. He is slated to have his final pre-Derby workout at Gulfstream May 1 before shipping to Kentucky.
April 24 GULFSTREAM PARK Fast
1.00:04 Breezing 5/13
April 24 NOTE:
White Abarrio breezed in company, passing workmate Stormy Pattern (1:01.04) nearing the wire. He galloped out six furlongs in 1:12.58.
Trainer Joseph said, “It went good. I got him in 59 and 4. They got him in a minute. He worked with that horse before the Florida Derby, two weeks out. We kept everything the same, the same workmate, a similar pattern two weeks out. That time he ran a 1:02. This time he ran a little faster than a minute. Last time he galloped out in 1:13. This time he galloped out in 1:12. You just try to keep an even keel. It’s a long way to go in horse racing terms – 13 days. You just want to get through everything and ship up there fine and go into the race the best we can.”
Joseph has trained one Kentucky Derby starter, Ny Traffic, who finished eighth in the September edition of the 2020 Run for the Roses.
April 26 VIDEO: Trainer Joseph
April 29 NOTE: White Abarrio is set to work Saturday at Gulfstream Park.
April 30 NOTE: Trainer Joseph said, “There was no rain at Palm Meadows, but Gulfstream Park got hit with a lot (today). It’s his last work before the Derby, an easy half-mile work. It looks like the weather is improving, but it takes just one shower to make a track bad.” The colt works Saturday after the 10th race.
April 30 GULFSTREAM PARK Fast
48:28 Breezing 1/3
April 30 NOTE: White Abarrio breezed solo under exercise rider Vicente Gudiel after breaking off from a lead pony at the 3/8 pole, ran down the lane with his ears laid back, and engaged in an energetic gallop-out. Initial fractions were reported to be 12.60 and 24.20, and a track spokesperson said he galloped out six furlongs in 1:12.38 and seven in 1:25.15. Trainer Joseph told BloodHorse, "We weren't looking for overly too much. We had him in :47 4/5 but it was what he did after. I think that's the strongest he's galloped out since I've had him. He worked as good as we wanted him to work."
May 1 NOTE: The van carrying White Abarrio to Louisville was left South Florida late this morning.
POST POSITION DRAW: Trainer Saffie Joseph Jr.: “Everything’s good so far, we like our post. We’re very thankful for where we drew. It’s a good spot, most definitely, now he just has to break well and run his race.”
May 7, Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs, 1 1/4 Mile.
White Abarrio finished 16th, beaten 20 lengths, after running mid-pack into the stretch.
QUOTES
Saffie Joseph Jr.: “He made it out in one piece. It’s hard but that’s racing. An 80-1 shot winning, unbelievable. Congrats to them."
”Tyler Gaffalione: “He jumped great. Then the first sixteenth we got squeezed back and then he was fighting the kickback and I got caught wide both turns. He made a good run just kinda got tired out.”
ZANDON (KY) POST 10 ML 3-1
Derby Points: 114
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $663,500
Jockey: Flavien Prat
Trainer: Chad C. Brown
Owner: Jeff Drown
Breeder: Brereton C. Jones
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Upstart (Flatter Party Silks)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Memories Prevail (Creative Cause, Incarnate Memories)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 2-3-9-0-0 (14) 2.11
Foal Date: March 21, 2019
Auction Price(s): $170,000 Keeneland September 2020
Arrival at Churchill Downs: April 24. Barn 25.
Feb. 19, Risen Star Stakes, Fair Grounds, 1 1/8 Mile.
To win, Epicenter just had to run his race a little better, and he did. An easy winner of the Gun Runner Stakes earlier in the Fair Grounds meet, Epicenter set fast fractions only to be beaten a nose in January’s Lecomte Stakes by longshot closer Call Me Midnight. With his front-running style, Epicenter controlled the pace in the Risen Star and won under Joel Rosario.
Breaking alertly from the five-hole, Epicenter needed little urging to open up a length on Pioneer of Medina in fractions of 23.79 and 47.97. After a comfortable six furlongs in 1:12.25, Epicenter was able to skip away in the long stretch with a final time of 1:49.03 on a fast track. He cruised under the wire 2-3/4 lengths ahead of the late-running favorite Smile Happy, who had a bit of traffic trouble in his first start off the layoff. Zandon finished a half-length back in third in the 10-horse field after a horrible break from the gate.
Pioneer of Medina ran fourth followed by Tawny Port, Slow Down Andy, Trafalgar, Pappacap, Bodock and Russian Tank.
QUOTES
Chad Brown: “He leapt at the start so it was disappointing he was so far back. He lost all chance to win. I’m proud of the horse’s effort that he was still able to get a minor piece. The points can help us down the road.”
April 9, Toyota Blue Grass Stakes, Keeneland, 1 1/8 Mile.
On a track rated muddy, Zandon and Flavien Prat roared past favored Smile Happy, ridden by Corey Lanerie, approaching the sixteenth pole and drew off to a 2 1/2-length victory on a cold afternoon. Zandon was timed in 1:50.35. Emmanuel, with Luis Saez aboard, grabbed the lead out of the gate and led through fractions of 24.04 and 48.39 while being tracked by Golden Glider, with Smile Happy in the clear racing third and Zandon far back in the pack.
The top three remained unchanged going into the far turn as Zandon was still last while racing between horses. On the turn, Prat began to weave his way through the field, and on the front end Lanerie sent Smile Happy after Emmanuel. At the top of the stretch, Smile Happy brushed with Emmanuel as he surged to the front. Behind him Zandon had clear sailing in his pursuit. Smile Happy maintained the advantage passing the eighth pole but could not hold off Zandon. Emmanuel stayed on for third, beaten 6 1/4 lengths. It was another half-length back to Golden Glider in fourth with Trademark, Rattle N Roll, Ethereal Road, Commandperformance, Blackadder, Volcanic and Fenwick following in that order.
QUOTES
Flavien Prat: “He broke just OK. Then I got myself covered up so I was there with nothing I could do about it. The pace was a bit slow, so I was wandering down the backside. But I was traveling super – it was just a matter of finding a gap and getting a clean run down the lane. It’s going to be a bigger field (in the Derby), but it was already a good field today. It’s just a matter of getting a clean break and getting yourself into position. That’s always key.”
Assistant trainer Baldo Hernandez: “After his last race (third in the Risen Star), he is improving a lot. He’s a really nice colt and he’s been handling the track really well. Every morning he is training better and better. Flavien is a nice jockey and gave him a nice race and I think he is a really nice horse to go to the Kentucky Derby.”
Owner Jeff Drown: “I’m working on (catching my breath), working on it. What a great race. What a fantastic performance. You gotta trust the rider. The trainer had him ready – Chad did a fantastic job. Flavien rode him perfect. It just felt good.”
April 13 NOTE: Zandon will stay at Keeneland for at least two weeks after the Blue Grass before being shipped to Churchill Downs. Trainer Brown told DRF such a schedule worked well for Good Magic and Practical Joke.
April 23 KEENELAND Fast
48:60 Breezing 24/91
VIDEO
CHAD BROWN VIDEO
April 23 NOTE:
Exercise rider Kriss Bon handled the move as Zandon completed eighth-mile fractions of 12.80, 25.20 and 37.00. He galloped out five furlongs in 1:00.80, six furlongs in 1:13.80 and seven-eighths of a mile in 1:27.60. Trainer Chad Brown reported Zandon will ship to Churchill Downs the next day.
Trainer Brown said, “He was moving super; just what we wanted to see. We just wanted to maintain where he is. He does not have to get any fitter. I was impressed with how he galloped out. He has had a small number of races,but those races were very meaningful. We quite liked him by the time he debuted. I was surprised he won sprinting. When he won, he really picked my head up. I thought he had way above average potential. Then he showed a lot in the Remsen going 1 1/8 miles. He has a lot of good experience in a small number of races.”
April 24 NOTE: Zandon is scheduled to have his final Kentucky Derby work at Churchill Downs on Saturday, April 30. He was vanned to Churchill Downs from Keeneland today.
April 25 NOTE:
Zandon made his first appearance on the track at Churchill Downs Monday at 9:40 while the track was quiet.
Trainer Brown said of Saturday's workout, “It looked like he was galloping through the lane. It was a super move. I really just wanted to stretch his legs and evaluate how he’s moving and maintaining where he’s at.”
April 26 NOTE: Trainer Brown was trackside this morning. Zandon is likely to work Saturday.
April 27 NOTE: Zandon galloped about 1 1/2 miles at 7:30 a.m. Trainer Brown said, “I’m really excited the way he’s taken to the surroundings here at Churchill. We’ll likely keep him on the Saturday work pattern."
April 28 NOTE: Zandon is slated to have his final Derby work Saturday.
April 29 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
1.00:40 Breezing 7/43
April 29 NOTE: Zandon's splits were 12.80, 25.00 and 36.80, and he was out six furlongs in 1:12.80 and seven in 1:26.40. First furlong: 12.80; second furlong: 12:20; third furlong: 11.80. Final two furlongs: 23.60. First furlong out: 12.40; second furlong out: 13.60. Trainer Brown said, “I just didn’t want to take any chances with the weather forecast, even though it looks better for tomorrow. The track is in fabulous shape. You’re not going to get a better track to train over than we got this morning. With horses at this level heading into the Derby, very few of them work poorly. It’s the best of the crop running in the Derby. You just hope that you can be in that group of good workers and not in that small one that may not work well.”
May 1 NOTE: Zandon returned to the track today.
POST POSITION DRAW: Trainer Chad Brown: “Perfect. We’re ready to go.”
May 7, Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs, 1 1/4 Mile. Zandon, shut off at the start and shuffled back to 13th as the field passed under the wire the first time, was gallant in defeat. He and Flavien Prat advanced to ninth at the top of the backstretch, got to the rail around the far turn and swung out into the stretch to get a bead on Epicenter, coming up another three-quarters length short. Zandon was sent off as the third choice at 6-1 odds and paid $5.60 to show.
QUOTES
Chad Brown: “We really had a great trip. Epicenter was in front of us closer to the pace and Flavien really just followed Joel (Rosario) all the way. Turning for home he was in a great position and was really battling with Epicenter. (Rich Strike) just snuck up our inside and we were third best.”
Joel Rosario: “Everything was perfect. We thought we were home. Too bad that horse got us right at the end. I thought Epicenter ran a tremendous race. He did everything. He responded when I asked him. We ran too good to get beat.”
ZOZOS (KY) POST 19 ML 20-1
Derby Points: 40
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings: $200,000. Career: $291,200
Jockey: Manny Franco
Trainer: Brad Cox
Owner: Barry and Joni Butzow
Breeder: Barry Butzow & Joni Butzow
Sire (Sire’s Sire, Dam): Munnings (Speightstown, La Comete)
Dam (Dam’s Sire, Dam): Papa's Forest (Forestry, Dixie Sue)
Dosage Profile (Points) Index: 2-4-4-0-0 (10) 4.00
Foal Date: March 18, 2019
Auction Price(s): NA
Arrival at Churchill Downs: March 29. Barn 22, Stall 39.
March 26, Louisiana Derby, Fair Grounds, 1 3/16 Mile.
Epicenter proved rateable after winning two races at the track in front-running fashion. Drawn in the sixth post position, Epicenter broke alertly but was beaten into the first turn by Zozos and Florenet Geroux, who rolled to the front end in 23.27, 47.35, and 1:11.69 for six furlongs.
Epicenter backed off and ran on the rail while Pioneer of Medina, ridden by Tyler Gaffalione, chased Zozos entering the stretch. That's when Rosario angled out Epicenter to daylight and powered past rivals to win by 2 1/2 lengths in 1:54.38. Making his stakes debut and third start overall, Zozos and Pioneer of Medina held off late challengers to earn second and third, separated by two lengths. Pioneer of Medina had been shipped to New Orleans from south Florida for the third time this meet, and to make matters more challenging he threw Gaffalione in the post parade. Rattle N Roll, who was seventh early and thereafter made up no ground on the front pace, edged Galt and Call Me Midnight to run fourth. LeComte winner Call Me Midnight was far back early and flattened out in the stretch after launching his bid around the far turn. Kupuna, Curly Tail and Silent Power rounded out the finish.
QUOTES
Florent Geroux: “No shame in that effort at all. That was only his third start, and he ran very well. He was digging in late to hold off the challengers. That’s what you like to see.”
Brad Cox: “We let him run away from there, establish position. We didn't necessarily think we had to have the lead or anything. I was happy with the layout of the race, maybe a touch quick, but these good horses, that's what they do. He stayed on well down the lane. Once he got him back up off the rail when he was passed, he stayed on pretty well, it didn't indicate to me that distance was the issue just maybe lack of experience, seasoning and foundation--he got a lot of all of that today. And if we choose to go to the Kentucky Derby, he’ll get a lot out of this to propel him forward, and thats what he’ll need to take that path.”
APRIL 10 NOTE: Zozos is set to work at Churchill Downs next weekend.
April 15 CHURCHILL DOWNS
1:00.60 Breezing 15/60
April 16 NOTE:
On April 15 Zozos worked in company at 5:30 with Turnerloose. With jockey Florent Geroux in the saddle, Zozos started about one length behind his stablemate and worked through early fractions of 24 and 48.40. The duo began their five-furlong move at the half-mile pole and Zozos finished even with Turnerloose at the seven-furlong marker. Zozos galloped out six furlongs in 1:13.60.
Jockey Geroux said, “He’s a really smart horse. He’s starting to come into his own, and it was a really nice work this morning. I settled back of (Turnerloose) and he finished up nicely with her. Both horses worked well.”
April 22, 2022 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
1.12:40 Breezing 1/4
April 22 NOTE:
Zozos breezed with Florent Geroux in the saddle outside of stablemate Fulsome through fractions of 24 and 48.40. The duo galloped out around the clubhouse through seven furlongs in 1:25.20.
Trainer Cox said, “It was another really strong move. He galloped out really well around the turn and is really doing well over this track. He’s a quick horse as he showed in the Louisiana Derby but he settles into his works nicely.”
April 26 NOTE: Zozos will be ridden by Manny Franco in the Derby. He's scheduled to work Friday.
April 27 NOTE: Zozos visited the Churchill Downs starting gate and had a 1 1/2-mile gallop at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday.
April 28 NOTE: Trainer Cox said Zozos will work Saturday.
April 30 CHURCHILL DOWNS Fast
1.11:40 Breezing 2/4
VIDEO
BRAD COX VIDEO
April 30 NOTE:
Cyberknife and Zozos worked in company, with Cyberknife breaking off a length behind and finishing on even terms. The move began at the 5/8 pole and ended at the 7/8 pole (midway through the clubhouse turn). Track clockers probably have the splits, but they aren't available yet. I will update if they become available. The pair were pulled up around mid-stretch.
POST POSITION DRAW: Trainer Brad Cox: “I’m happy with all three draws (Cyberknife, Tawyny Port, Zozos). I think with the Derby starting at the head of the stretch, and a quarter of a mile to the first turn, they’ll be able to get into position.”
May 7, Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs, 1 1/4 Mile.
Zozos finished 10th, beaten 15 3/4 lengths, after sitting a couple of lengths behind a fast early pace for the first mile.
QUOTES
Brad Cox: “Zozos was too close to the hot pace. No doubt that was a really hot pace. No matter how good you look breezing or in the mornings, you have to have the right setup."
Manny Franco: “The pace was hot. I was right where I wanted to be. The other horses were better than him today.”
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