Thoroughbred Racing Fans

This is a very important list for me because I continue to hold to the notion that no horse will win the Kentucky Derby unless it has raced as a 2 year old. Of course, the other reality is that no multiple graded stakes winning 2 year old horse since Swale has won the Kentucky Derby since Swale in 1988 - I think. What a crap shoot. A dozen and then 5 Honorable Mentions and I could have done more. I also appear to be in a rut...between McLaughlin, Baffert and Pletcher is half of my derby list. Also, half of the top 12 are Cal-based horses. I think California with the dominance of I'll Have Another, California Chrome, Shared Belief, Hoppertunity and Bayern - has really shown itself to have growing dominance in the three year old ranks...I'll Have Another's year, Bodemeister and Paynter placing second in the the 3 Triple Crown races - so I think its much deserved.

1. Ocho Ocho Ocho (Street Sense by Street Cry – Winner by South African Triple Crown winner Horse Chestnut) 10
Trainer: James Cassidy
Next Race: G2 Robert Lewis, 8.5 furlongs?
G2 Delta Jackpot, 8.5 furlongs
G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf Spring, 6.5 furlongs (10)

I think he has shown the most of this class with his late season wins. If American Pharoah could have run once late season he would have had this spot. Top and bottom he should be able to compete. He seems to have a lot of versatility. I also really like his breeding.

2. American Pharoah (Pioneer of the Nile by Empire Maker – Littleprincessemma by Yankee Gentleman by Storm Cat) 10
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G3 Sham Stakes, 8 furlongs?
G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
G1 Del Mar Futurity, 7 furlongs

Well, he avoided the BC Juvenile curse which only Street Sense has managed to break by being scratched for the race. Hopefully, this bodes well for this son of Pioneer of the Nile. I guessed that Mr. Baffert will want to get him racing again early and target the Sham in order to have him peaking for the Derby given his lay off. We'll see.

3. Frosted (Tapit by Pulpit – Fast Cookie by Deputy Minisiter) 4
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G2 Holy Bull, 8.5 furlongs
2nd G1 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs (4)

Mr. McLaughlin's most precocious charge for 2015. Following in the footsteps of Cairo Prince who finished a close second to Honor Code in last year's edition of the Remsen Stakes, Frosted looked great. Hopefully some time off will give him a chance to build some muscle for a tough three year old campaign.

4. Blofeld (Quality Road by Elusive Quality by Gone West – Storm Minstrel by Storm Cat and Colonial Minstrel by Pleasant Colony)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs
G2 Nashua Stakes, 8 furlongs
G2 Belmont Futurity, 6 furlongs

I like this horse a lot. Adopting the name of a James Bond villain is great. I hope he stays healthy. I like his breeding with Storm Cat and Pleasant Colony on the bottom and being a grandson of Smarty Jones on top - if he has half the speed of his sire he'll be fast.

5. Carpe Diem (Giants Causeway by Storm Cat – Rebridled Dreams – Unbridled Song) 14
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs?
2nd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (4)
G1 Breeders Cup Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (10)

He would be rated higher if he had won the Breeders' Cup Juvenile since he was the class of the race in my mind. He's still a solid colt and I believe he'll do well next year. The question is where he'll start? Fountain of Youth? Gotham Stakes. Increasingly this decision can carry the fate of the horse for the Kentucky Derby since its not just about graded stakes earnings any more.

6. Acceptance (Vronsky by Danzig – Allswellthatnswell by Perfect Mandate)
Trainer: Donald Warren
Next Race: California Cup?
King Glorious Stakes
Golden State Juvenile Stakes

Well, last year's King Glorious winner won the Kentucky Derby. Is the King Glorious becoming one of the top Kentucky Derby prep races? LOL Before you laugh as well, his breeding is incredible. He is a great grandson of Northern Dancer through Danzig.   His sire's dam was by Santa Anita Handicap winner Lord At War. His dam's sire is in the Mr. Prospector line. His dam's dam is in the Northern Dancer/Somethingroyal (Secretariat's dam) Princequillo family. Needless to say I am a fan of the breeding.

7. Texas Red (Afleet Alex by Northern Afleet – Rematuelle by Jeune Homme by Nureyev) 12
Trainer: Keith Desormaeaux
Next Race: G2 San Vicente
G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (10)
2nd G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (2)

This horse is moving forward. The big question is whether he can carry his top form to his three year old season. I liked his sire a lot and it would be nice to see him get a top Kentucky Derby contender.

8. Dortmund (Big Brown by Boundary – Our Josephina by Tale Of The Cat) 10
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G2 Rebel Stakes, 8.5 furlongs?
G1 Los Alamitos Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (10)

Who knows what to make of Dortmund? Everyone has him high on their Derby list. I was confused by his first stakes race, the G1 Los Alamitos Futurity. Perhaps the track plays slower than Del Mar and Santa Anita, and he'll like the Santa Anita surface better because folks had him as the best in the race by far, and then he barely wins. Perhaps its just his youth showing. Then again, Mr. Baffert always has so many top three year olds, this one may end up shipping to the Rebel Stakes or elsewhere.

9. Calculator (In Summation by Pull It Back –  Back to Basics by Alphabet Soup 14
Trainer: Peter Miller
Next Race: February 7, Robert Lewis Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
1st G3 Sham Stakes, 8 furlongs (10)
2nd G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)
2nd G1 Del Mar Futurity, 7 furlongs

I guessed right that Mr. Miller wanted to get him back on the track soon as he is able for the G3 Sham Stakes. Impressive win. Folks will say - but who did he beat - and can he stretch out - but a 97 BSF with an easy win - makes this race impressive. More impressive in my book than El Kabeir's.

10. Bold Conquest (Curlin by Smart Strike – One For Jim by Distorted Humor) 6
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Next Race: Rebel Stakes or Risen Star.
3rd G1 Breeders Cup Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (2)
G3 Iroquois Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)

He has a win over the Churchill surface like Dortmund. This cannot be ignored. Hopefully he moves forward. No idea where he starts next, but I am thinking Oaklawn - though the LeComte could also feature for him. I read somewhere that Mr. Asmussen was aiming for 2 stake preps only for the Derby.

11. Competitive Edge (Super Saver by Maria's Mon – Magdalena's Choice by Cape Town)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Jerome Handicap, 8 furlongs?
G1 Hopeful Stakes, 7 furlongs

I assume he's been out with an injury. If he heals up I would think the goal would be to get him back to the track soon. If he stays north, that could be the Jerome or Withers, but the fact that he is not working probably means something later rather than sooner.

12. Upstart (Flatter by A.P. Indy - by Touch Gold 6
Trainer: Richard Violette
Next Race: G3 Holy Bull Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
3rd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (2)
2nd G1 Champagne Stakes, 8 furlongs (4)
Funny Cide Stakes, 6.5 furlongs

Samraat II? Maybe. He's been in the money in three stakes including the BC Juvenile. If he moves forward perhaps next year they'll be asking "the next Upstart".

Honorable Mentions
Classy Class (Discreetly Mine by Mineshaft –Collegiate by Saarland) 1
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G2 Jerome, 8 furlongs
4th G2 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs (1)

We'll see. This is Mr. McLaughlin's other top three year old horse.

Bayerd (Speightstown by - Cherokee Jewel by Cherokee Run)
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Next Race: Smarty Jones?, 8 furlongs
Springboard Mile Stakes

This Asmussen trained horse bested Frosted at Saratoga. Might be one to watch.

Lord Nelson (Pulpit by A.P. Indy - African Jade by Seeking the Gold) 1
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G3 Lecomte Stakes, 8 furlongs?
5th G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs 
Speakeasy Stakes, 6 furlongs
4th G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (1)

I wonder if he's a late bloomer or perhaps better suited to shorter distances. One of Pulpits last crops.

Eagle (Candy Ride by Ride The Rails - Sea Gull by Mineshaft) 2
Trainer: Neil Howard
Next Race: G3 Lecomte Stakes, 8 furlongs
3rd G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs  (2)

The name is attractive, but what got me was his owner - Mr. Farrish. Same silks as Honor Code.

Imperia (Medaglia d'Oro by El Prado - Cocoa Beach by Doneraille Court by Seattle Slew) 4
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: Withers, 8 furlongs?
2nd G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs (4)

I was attracted to this horse for one reason - his dam. I really liked Cocoa Beach as a race horse.

Lucky Player (Lookin At Lucky by Smart Strike - Janetstickettocats by Strom Cat) 10
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Next Race: G2 Risen Star, 8 furlongs or G2 Rebel Stakes
G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs (10)

This horse is here for one reason - his sire. Lookin At Lucky is one of  my favorites and I hope his progeny do very well. This horse is probably going to be treated like Bond Conquest and go for 2 starts before the Derby. The Bluegrass Stakes might be a possibility.

Pretty soon I'm going to have a Derby Top 50.... :banghead: :lmao:

Nice win by El Kabeir in the Jerome.

He is the first to show that he can carry his 2 year old form into the 3 year old season - becoming the new points leader

American Pharoah will begin his works later this month. I wonder if that will allow him to have more than 2 works before the Derby.

Dortmund is staying sharp turning in his 1st work since the G1 Los Alamitos Futurity 48 and change.

It will be interesting to see how many preps these horses get before the Kentucky Derby. 

HRN has a list of 20 potential derby starters from NY...wow.

http://www.horseracingnation.com/blogs/NYState/New_York_s_2015_Kentucky_Derby_Contenders_II_The_Jerome_123

1) Carpe Diem
2) Blofeld
3) Imperia
4) Competitve Edge
5) Frosted
6) El Kabeir
7) Ocean Knight
8) Upstart
9) Big Trouble
10) Classy Class

I've got 5 of them in my Derby dozen...which means I have 6 Cal-based - and 1 midwest -based with Steve Asmussen's Bold Conquest.

Will a Cal-based horse make it 3 out of 4 Kentucky Derby's this year after I'll Have Another and California Chrome?
Could the Santa Anita hit 3 out of 4 Kentucky Derby winners using it as a last prep? Before the above two - Giacomo was the last Santa Anita Derby  participant to win the Kentucky Derby in 2005. 
Will the Wood Memorial finally factor into a Derby winner? Its been 14 years since a Wood Memorial winner won the Kentucky Derby (11 since an entrant in the race won it (Funny Cide).
The Florida Derby had the winners in 2006 (Barbaro) and 2008 (Big Brown) and 2013 (Orb) - so it will be interesting to see if the winner of that race wins the Kentucky Derby.
The Arkansas Derby in 2004 had Smarty Jones and 2005 Afleet Alex and in 2010 had Super Saver a second place AD finisher.

It seems to move in cycles - though the last winner of the Bluegrass Stakes to win the Derby was in 1991 when Strike the Gold won the race - Street Sense ran in the race and won in 2007.   

Is this horse Runhappy a freak or the real deal or both?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5mE0jGV45Ak

This maiden is nothing short of incredible. He is like a missile.

Then he blows the turn at the top of the stretch and still wins by 4 or 5.

He reminds me of one horse who I really liked - Eightyfiveinafifty.

Didn't Eightyfiveinafifty go through the outer rail once?
That horse looked to be very green!!
Would he be able to do that on dirt?

Yes Eightyfiveinafifty did that. It was very sad. I understand that he is breeding in Mexico now so hopefully he has found his niche. I did get to see him win the Bayshore.

Do not know how he will take to dirt...but wow if he does.

1. Ocho Ocho Ocho (Street Sense by Street Cry – Winner by South African Triple Crown winner Horse Chestnut) 10
Trainer: James Cassidy
Next Race: G2 Robert Lewis, 8.5 furlongs?
G2 Delta Jackpot, 8.5 furlongs
G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf Spring, 6.5 furlongs (10)

2. American Pharoah (Pioneer of the Nile by Empire Maker – Littleprincessemma by Yankee Gentleman by Storm Cat) 10
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G2 Rebel Stakes, 8.5 furlongs?
G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
G1 Del Mar Futurity, 7 furlongs

3. Frosted (Tapit by Pulpit – Fast Cookie by Deputy Minisiter) 8
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G1 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs
2nd G3 Holy Bull, 8.5 furlongs (4)
2nd G1 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs (4)

A decent performance. Hopefully a bit rusty and he'll shake it off in his next race.

4. Blofeld (Quality Road by Elusive Quality by Gone West – Storm Minstrel by Storm Cat and Colonial Minstrel by Pleasant Colony)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs
G2 Nashua Stakes, 8 furlongs
G2 Belmont Futurity, 6 furlongs

5. Carpe Diem (Giants Causeway by Storm Cat – Rebridled Dreams – Unbridled Song) 14
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs?
2nd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (4)
G1 Breeders Cup Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (10)

6. Acceptance (Vronsky by Danzig – Allswellthatnswell by Perfect Mandate)
Trainer: Donald Warren
Next Race: San Felipe Stakes
4th California Cup, 8.5 furlongs
King Glorious Stakes
Golden State Juvenile Stakes

Hmm. Not the best race for him. I do not know what the problem was. He just did not seem prepared for the race. Was it tougher competition? I do not know. May be dropped to honorable mention.

7. Texas Red (Afleet Alex by Northern Afleet – Rematuelle by Jeune Homme by Nureyev) 12
Trainer: Keith Desormaeaux
Next Race: G2 San Vicente
G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (10)
2nd G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (2)

8. Dortmund (Big Brown by Boundary – Our Josephina by Tale Of The Cat) 10
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G2 San Felipe Stakes, 8.5 furlongs.
G1 Los Alamitos Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (10)

9. Calculator (In Summation by Pull It Back –  Back to Basics by Alphabet Soup 14
Trainer: Peter Miller
Next Race: February 7, Robert Lewis Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
1st G3 Sham Stakes, 8 furlongs (10)
2nd G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)
2nd G1 Del Mar Futurity, 7 furlongs

10. Bold Conquest (Curlin by Smart Strike – One For Jim by Distorted Humor) 6
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Next Race: G2 Rebel Stakes or G2 Risen Star.
3rd G1 Breeders Cup Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (2)
G3 Iroquois Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)

11. Competitive Edge (Super Saver by Maria's Mon – Magdalena's Choice by Cape Town)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs?
G1 Hopeful Stakes, 7 furlongs

12. Upstart (Flatter by A.P. Indy - by Touch Gold 16
Trainer: Richard Violette
Next Race: G2 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs
1st G3 Holy Bull, 8.5 furlongs (10)
3rd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (2)
2nd G1 Champagne Stakes, 8 furlongs (4)
Funny Cide Stakes, 6.5 furlongs

This was a strong field - probably the strongest prep race so far this year - though some might suggest that Smarty Jones with Mr. Z and friends was. He appears to be moving forward and could be a factor in the Derby given that one more race will give him enough points. The 105 BSF bears this out.

Honorable Mentions
Classy Class (Discreetly Mine by Mineshaft –Collegiate by Saarland) 1
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G3 Withers Stakes?
4th G2 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs (1)

Bayerd (Speightstown by - Cherokee Jewel by Cherokee Run) 4
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Next Race: G3 Southwest Stakes or G2 Rebel Stakes?
2nd Smarty Jones Stakes, 8 furlongs (4)
Springboard Mile Stakes

Wow. He is the real deal since that was a nice field.

Lord Nelson (Pulpit by A.P. Indy - African Jade by Seeking the Gold) 1
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G2 Risen Star?
5th G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs 
Speakeasy Stakes, 6 furlongs
4th G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (1)

Eagle (Candy Ride by Ride The Rails - Sea Gull by Mineshaft) 2
Trainer: Neil Howard
Next Race: G2 Risen Star Stakes
7th G3 Lecomte Stakes, 8 furlongs
3rd G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs  (2)

He just may not have liked the track.

Imperia (Medaglia d'Oro by El Prado - Cocoa Beach by Doneraille Court by Seattle Slew) 4
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: Withers, 8 furlongs?
2nd G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs (4)

Lucky Player (Lookin At Lucky by Smart Strike - Janetstickettocats by Strom Cat) 10
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Next Race: G2 Risen Star, 8 furlongs or G2 Rebel Stakes
G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs (10)

Here is the first Derby Dozen I have seen this year...it seems each year is a bit earlier.

http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/kentucky-derby-dozen/archive/2015/01/27/derby-dozen-january-26-2015-presented-by-shadwell-farm.aspx

1. Texas Red
2. American Pharoah
3. Calculator
4. Dortmund
5. Upstart
6. Firing Line
7. Bolo
8. Carpe Diem
9. Competitive Edge
10. Imperia
11. Daredevil
12. Ocho Ocho Ocho

I do have 8 out of 12. Interesting he did not have Frosted.

1. Ocho Ocho Ocho (Street Sense by Street Cry – Winner by South African Triple Crown winner Horse Chestnut) 10
Trainer: James Cassidy
Next Race: G2 Robert Lewis, 8.5 furlongs?
G2 Delta Jackpot, 8.5 furlongs
G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint, 6.5 furlongs (10)

2. American Pharoah (Pioneer of the Nile by Empire Maker – Littleprincessemma by Yankee Gentleman by Storm Cat) 10
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G2 Rebel Stakes, 8.5 furlongs?
G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
G1 Del Mar Futurity, 7 furlongs

His first work back seemed strong. A good sign..

3. Frosted (Tapit by Pulpit – Fast Cookie by Deputy Minisiter) 8
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G2 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs
2nd G3 Holy Bull, 8.5 furlongs (4)
2nd G1 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs (4)

4. Blofeld (Quality Road by Elusive Quality by Gone West – Storm Minstrel by Storm Cat and Colonial Minstrel by Pleasant Colony)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs
G2 Nashua Stakes, 8 furlongs
G2 Belmont Futurity, 6 furlongs

5. Carpe Diem (Giants Causeway by Storm Cat – Rebridled Dreams – Unbridled Song) 14
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs? Eventually the Bluegrass Stakes?
2nd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (4)
G1 Breeders Cup Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (10)

6. El Kabeir (Scat Daddy by Johannesberg - Great Venue by Unbridled Song) (21) 
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next race: G2 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
G3 Jerome Handicap, 8 furlongs
G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs
2nd G3 Nashua Stakes, 8 furlongs
4th G1 Champagne Stakes, 1 mile

Added him because he just seems to be doing everything right. We'll see if he really enters the Withers this week or skips it for the Gotham so that he can be sharper going into the Wood Memorial which it would seem is his goal.

7. Texas Red (Afleet Alex by Northern Afleet – Rematuelle by Jeune Homme by Nureyev) 12
Trainer: Keith Desormaeaux
Next Race: G2 Risen Star
2nd G2 San Vicente, 7 furlolngs
G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (10)
2nd G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (2)

I had no problem with this result. Some suggested that without pace to run at he was a one dimensional horse. That may be the case, but he is still talented. Its been over 2 months since his last race. He needed it. We'll look for him to move up in his next start.

8. Dortmund (Big Brown by Boundary – Our Josephina by Tale Of The Cat) 10
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G2 San Felipe Stakes, 8.5 furlongs.
G1 Los Alamitos Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (10)

9. Upstart (Flatter by A.P. Indy - by Touch Gold 16
Trainer: Richard Violette
Next Race: G2 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs
1st G3 Holy Bull, 8.5 furlongs (10)
3rd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (2)
2nd G1 Champagne Stakes, 8 furlongs (4)
Funny Cide Stakes, 6.5 furlongs

9. Calculator (In Summation by Pull It Back –  Back to Basics by Alphabet Soup 14
Trainer: Peter Miller
Next Race: February 7, Robert Lewis Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
1st G3 Sham Stakes, 8 furlongs (10)
2nd G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)
2nd G1 Del Mar Futurity, 7 furlongs

Too bad about the injury. Look forward to seeing him race in the summer.

10. Bold Conquest (Curlin by Smart Strike – One For Jim by Distorted Humor) 6
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Next Race: G2 Rebel Stakes or G2 Risen Star.
3rd G1 Breeders Cup Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (2)
G3 Iroquois Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)

11. Competitive Edge (Super Saver by Maria's Mon – Magdalena's Choice by Cape Town)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs?
G1 Hopeful Stakes, 7 furlongs

12. Imperia (Medaglia d'Oro by El Prado - Cocoa Beach by Doneraille Court by Seattle Slew) 4
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G2 Risen Star, 8.5 furlongs
2nd G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs (4)

Honorable Mentions
Classy Class (Discreetly Mine by Mineshaft –Collegiate by Saarland) 1
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G3 Withers Stakes?
4th G2 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs (1)

Bayerd (Speightstown by - Cherokee Jewel by Cherokee Run) 4
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Next Race: G3 Southwest Stakes or G2 Rebel Stakes?
2nd Smarty Jones Stakes, 8 furlongs (4)
Springboard Mile Stakes

Lord Nelson (Pulpit by A.P. Indy - African Jade by Seeking the Gold) 1
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G2 San Felipe/Louisiana Derby?
G2 San Vicente, 7 furlongs
5th G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs 
Speakeasy Stakes, 6 furlongs
4th G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (1)

I do not know if he is better going short, or if he can stretch out. If I felt more comfortable, I would have him added to the list. The next race will tell a lot since he will be going longer against solid company - though Texas Red was quality competition.

Eagle (Candy Ride by Ride The Rails - Sea Gull by Mineshaft) 2
Trainer: Neil Howard
Next Race: G2 Risen Star Stakes
7th G3 Lecomte Stakes, 8 furlongs
3rd G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs  (2)

Lucky Player (Lookin At Lucky by Smart Strike - Janetstickettocats by Strom Cat) 10
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Next Race: G2 Risen Star, 8 furlongs or G2 Rebel Stakes
8th Smarty Jones, 8 furlongs
7th G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs (10)
8th G1 BC Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs
G3 Iroquois, 8.5 furlongs

Probably the first one off my list.

Acceptance (Vronsky by Danzig – Allswellthatnswell by Perfect Mandate)
Trainer: Donald Warren
Next Race: San Felipe Stakes
4th California Cup, 8.5 furlongs
King Glorious Stakes
Golden State Juvenile Stakes

I hated to drop him, but I just cannot account for his performance.

What are the bold numbers after the pedigree for?

The total points they have accumulated.

Oh duh. Thanks

Here's Steve's latest:

http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/kentucky-derby-dozen/archive/2015/02/03/steve-haskin-s-derby-dozen-for-february-3-2015.aspx

1. Texas Red
2. American Pharoah
3. Upstart
4. Dortmund
5.  Firing Line
6. Carpe Diem
7. Lord Nelson
8. Imperia
9. Ocean Knight
10. Competitive Edge
11. Ocho Ocho Ocho
12. International Star

Its a strong list. I have El Kabeir instead of International Star who will be added to my Honorable Mention list being a Fupeg son along with Great War soon. I loved FuPeg's other son Premier Pegasus.

Quote from: peeptoad on February 03, 2015, 02:42:22 PM
Oh duh. Thanks

As wacky as some of my parentheticals can be one never knows... ;-)

And Steve's new list...

1. Texas Red
2. American Pharoah
3. Upstart
4. Dortmund
5. Carpe Diem
6. Firing Line
7. Far From Over
8. Lord Nelson
9. Imperia
10. Ocean Knight
11. Ocho Ocho Ocho
12. Frosted

http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/kentucky-derby-dozen/archive/2015/02/10/derby-dozen-february-10-2015-presented-by-shadwell-farm.aspx

1. Ocho Ocho Ocho (Street Sense by Street Cry – Winner by South African Triple Crown winner Horse Chestnut) 10
Trainer: James Cassidy
Next Race: G2 San Felipe, 8.5 furlongs
G2 Delta Jackpot, 8.5 furlongs
G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint, 6.5 furlongs (10)

Had a very sharp work.

2. American Pharoah (Pioneer of the Nile by Empire Maker – Littleprincessemma by Yankee Gentleman by Storm Cat) 10
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G2 Rebel Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
G1 Del Mar Futurity, 7 furlongs

His second work back seemed strong.

3. Frosted (Tapit by Pulpit – Fast Cookie by Deputy Minisiter) 8
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G2 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs
2nd G3 Holy Bull, 8.5 furlongs (4)
2nd G1 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs (4)

Another horse with a good work that was described as breathtaking. Match-up with Upstart could be special.


4. Blofeld (Quality Road by Elusive Quality by Gone West – Storm Minstrel by Storm Cat and Colonial Minstrel by Pleasant Colony)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs
G2 Nashua Stakes, 8 furlongs
G2 Belmont Futurity, 6 furlongs


He is not yet galloping while he could still make the Derby, that seems like a long shot.

4. Carpe Diem (Giants Causeway by Storm Cat – Rebridled Dreams – Unbridled Song) 14
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Tampa Bay Derby, 9 furlongs
2nd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (4)
G1 Breeders Cup Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (10)

5. Dortmund (Big Brown by Boundary – Our Josephina by Tale Of The Cat) 20
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G2 San Felipe Stakes, 8.5 furlongs.
G3 Robert Lewis Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
G1 Los Alamitos Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (10)

I think he is a horse to watch. I think Bob Baffert has his best shot in years to win the Kentucky Derby with he and A.P.

6. Texas Red (Afleet Alex by Northern Afleet – Rematuelle by Jeune Homme by Nureyev) 12
Trainer: Keith Desormaeaux
Next Race: G1 Santa Anita Derby/G1 Arkansas Derby
2nd G2 San Vicente, 7 furlolngs
G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (10)
2nd G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (2)

I had no problem with this result. However, the injury gives me pause. This will mean he would enter the Derby off of 2 rather than 3 2015 preps which is not what the connections planned.
7. Upstart (Flatter by A.P. Indy - by Touch Gold 16
Trainer: Richard Violette
Next Race: G2 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs
G3 Holy Bull, 8.5 furlongs (10)
3rd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (2)
2nd G1 Champagne Stakes, 8 furlongs (4)
Funny Cide Stakes, 6.5 furlongs

His BSF is the highest this year for a three year old. He is doing everything right. The only knock is that he may be peaking too soon. His trainer's comments about not needing another race  besdes the San Vicente were silly and I disregarded them as more of a jab against the point system than credible.

8. Far From Over (Blame by Arch—Alchemist, by A.P. Indy) 10
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs/G1 Wood Memorial, 9 furlongs
G3 Withers Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)

9. Bold Conquest (Curlin by Smart Strike – One For Jim by Distorted Humor) 6
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Next Race: G3 Southwest Stakes, 8.5 furlongs 
3rd G1 Breeders Cup Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (2)
G3 Iroquois Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)

10. Competitive Edge (Super Saver by Maria's Mon – Magdalena's Choice by Cape Town)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs?
G1 Hopeful Stakes, 7 furlongs

I was about to jump off his bandwagon, but will give him until his first start which had better be soon. If he goes in the Swale, I'll have to take him off my list since he will not have two two-turn preps for the Derby. Now, one would think that could also disqualify Texas Red, but it doesn't because he at least won at 8.5 furlongs in the BC Juvenile, whereas CE has yet to win at a distance of more than 7 furlongs.

11. Imperia (Medaglia d'Oro by El Prado - Cocoa Beach by Doneraille Court by Seattle Slew) 4
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G2 Risen Star, 8.5 furlongs
2nd G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs (4)

Much easier with Texas Red out. No more excuses. Has to be in the winner's circle.

12. El Kabeir (Scat Daddy by Johannesberg - Great Venue by Unbridled Song) (25) 
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next race: G1 Wood Memorial, 9 furlongs
G3 Withers Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)
G3 Jerome Handicap, 8 furlongs (10)
G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs (10)
2nd G3 Nashua Stakes, 8 furlongs
4th G1 Champagne Stakes, 1 mile

I do not like to drop him, but he had no excuses in the Withers. I wonder if he can get much more than 8 furlongs.

Honorable Mentions
Classy Class (Discreetly Mine by Mineshaft –Collegiate by Saarland) 1
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G3 Withers Stakes?
4th G2 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs (1)

His first race back since the Remsen. It will be interesting to see if Ocean Knight heads to the Gotham or not.

Bayerd (Speightstown by - Cherokee Jewel by Cherokee Run) 4
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Next Race: G3 Southwest Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
2nd Smarty Jones Stakes, 8 furlongs (4)
Springboard Mile Stakes

Lord Nelson (Pulpit by A.P. Indy - African Jade by Seeking the Gold) 1
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G2 San Felipe, 8.5 furlongs
G2 San Vicente, 7 furlongs
5th G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs 
Speakeasy Stakes, 6 furlongs
4th G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (1)

I do not know if he is better going short, or if he can stretch out. If I felt more comfortable, I would have him added to the list. The next race will tell a lot since he will be going longer against solid company - though Texas Red was quality competition. He needs points, points points.

Eagle (Candy Ride by Ride The Rails - Sea Gull by Mineshaft) 2
Trainer: Neil Howard
Next Race: G2 Risen Star Stakes
7th G3 Lecomte Stakes, 8 furlongs
3rd G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs  (2)

No excuses.

Acceptance (Vronsky by Danzig – Allswellthatnswell by Perfect Mandate)
Trainer: Donald Warren
Next Race: San Felipe Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
4th California Cup, 8.5 furlongs
King Glorious Stakes
Golden State Juvenile Stakes

This will be his chance to shine.

And Steve's latest  list...

1. American Pharoah
2. Upstart
3. Carpe Diem
4. Dortmund
5. Texas Red
6. Firing Line
7. Far From Over
8. Lord Nelson
9. Imperia
10. Ocean Knight
11. Ocho Ocho Ocho
12. Frosted

http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/kentucky-derby-dozen/archive/2015/02/17/steve-haskin-s-derby-dozen-for-february-17-2015.aspx

Does anybody else have a Derby Dozen or Top Ten yet?

No since I find it a rather difficult exercise to keep re-categorizing a list every few days when horses either run poorly, get injured, etc. My list-making efforts generally go to film when I know what I've seen and have an opinion on it that's not likely to change unless I happen to re-watch something years later.

Since you asked and I'm on my lunch break here are a few in no particular order. I'm not real excited by any of these Derby prospects yet (same as every year- call me when it's March 28th):

Frosted
Upstart
Dortmund
Carpe Diem
International Star
Ocean Knight
Imperia

I don't have the diligence for lists but I do find myself being a fan of certain horses. Sometimes this
starts when they are two and sometimes I see them in a race and end up becoming a fan.
Dortmund 4 for 4 gutted out last win
Imperia finished 2nd last year in the Gr 2 Ken Jcky club so he can dirt. Loved his turf races
Lord Nelson - beat Texas Red and stayed healthy
Upstart - Liked him last year too
Ocho Ocho Ocho game as they come. Great win at Delta Downs
My sleeper horse is Tiznow RJ. He looks so young, if he can keep running well and get
in the gate for the derby I think he'll end up making some noise.

I've placed 2 Kentucky Derby future bets ...

American Pharoah and Ocho Ocho Ocho.

Anyone else have any going? If not, who would you place a hypothetical future bet on if you could only bet 2?

I have futures on Eagle and Imperia from pool 1, and of course Eagle is now out with an injury.
:-X

The only other future I ever placed was Pioneer of the Nile at 20/1 and he managed 2nd. I probably won't get closer than that.

I did future bets, this time I did exacta's. I figure if I'm lucky enough to hit something I might
as well swing for the fences. Like Yogi says "baseball is 90% mental, the other half is physical" :celebrate:

                                      , Race 2, $2.00 EXA 5 / 19      $2.00   
   Bet   Derby Futures, Race 2, $10.00 EXA 5 / 16      $10.00   
   Bet   Derby Futures, Race 2, $1.00 EXA 5,19,21,23,24 / 11      $5.00   
   Bet   Derby Futures, Race 2, $4.00 EXA 11 / 5,19,21,23,24      $20.00   
The 11 is Imperia and the 5 is Dortmund
I don't mind this bet, as long as they stay healthy should have some derby action locked up
come the big day

This is my second time ever with a future bet.
The first one was Orb at 17/1
This time is Upstart at 12/1

Nice price on Upstart :chickendance:

Anyone know when the next Kentucky Derby pool is?

Might want to add bets on Power Jam or Call Back.

Next future pool is Feb 27 - Mar 1
If these horses are flying under the radar they will be grouped with the mutual pool
making them massive underlays. It's better to find a site with KY Derby odds
Power Jam is currently 85-1 and a new entry. I couldn't find Call Back
Here is the link:
http://www.viewfromvegas.com/uploads/2015_Derby-Wynn_2-19.pdf

Here is the link to the pari-mutual wager

http://www.kentuckyderby.com/racing-wagering/future-wager

I hope they put Imperia back on turf... another year with no future wager.

Quote from: peeptoad on February 18, 2015, 09:19:58 AM
No since I find it a rather difficult exercise to keep re-categorizing a list every few days when horses either run poorly, get injured, etc. My list-making efforts generally go to film when I know what I've seen and have an opinion on it that's not likely to change unless I happen to re-watch something years later.

Since you asked and I'm on my lunch break here are a few in no particular order. I'm not real excited by any of these Derby prospects yet (same as every year- call me when it's March 28th):

Frosted
Upstart
Dortmund
Carpe Diem
International Star
Ocean Knight
Imperia

A very good start. I think they all will at least make it to the race and the favorite is probably among them.

1. Ocho Ocho Ocho (Street Sense by Street Cry – Winner by South African Triple Crown winner Horse Chestnut) 10
Trainer: James Cassidy
Next Race: G2 San Felipe, 8.5 furlongs
G2 Delta Jackpot, 8.5 furlongs
G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint, 6.5 furlongs (10)

He so far has been able to do it all. He is working well and seems on target for the San Felipe.

2. American Pharoah (Pioneer of the Nile by Empire Maker – Littleprincessemma by Yankee Gentleman by Storm Cat) 10
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G2 Rebel Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
G1 Del Mar Futurity, 7 furlongs

Time is getting closer for him to show us what he has. I do not fault 2 starts for him. He had a full two year old season. If he can not earn enough points in two races, then he should not be in the Derby. Have to trust Bob Baffert.

3. Upstart (Flatter by A.P. Indy - by Touch Gold 36
Trainer: Richard Violette
Next Race: G1 Florida Derby, 9 furlongs
2nd G2 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs (20)
G3 Holy Bull, 8.5 furlongs (10)
3rd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (2)
2nd G1 Champagne Stakes, 8 furlongs (4)
Funny Cide Stakes, 6.5 furlongs

He was robbed of the victory in the Fountain of Youth. There is no way Itsaknockout had any chance of getting by him. Itsaknockout makes an honorable mention because I love him damsire.

His next race will be very interesting. Some question whether he can get the 10 furlong distance, but Flat Out had not problem, so why should he?

4. Carpe Diem (Giants Causeway by Storm Cat – Rebridled Dreams – Unbridled Song) 14
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Tampa Bay Derby, 9 furlongs
2nd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (4)
G1 Breeders Cup Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (10)

He is working sharply and this weekend we'll see just how rusty he is.

5. Dortmund (Big Brown by Boundary – Our Josephina by Tale Of The Cat) 20
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G2 San Felipe Stakes, 8.5 furlongs.
G3 Robert Lewis Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
G1 Los Alamitos Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (10)

He needs to prove just how good the California Derby contingent is. He has bested Firing Line, but how good is Firing Line?

6. Texas Red (Afleet Alex by Northern Afleet – Rematuelle by Jeune Homme by Nureyev) 12
Trainer: Keith Desormaeaux
Next Race: G1 Santa Anita Derby/G1 Arkansas Derby
2nd G2 San Vicente, 7 furlolngs
G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (10)
2nd G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (2)

Can he win the Kentucky Derby off of a single route start? We'll find out. I hope he can get back to training soon because he seems one of the more talented of his geneation.

7.  Frosted (Tapit by Pulpit – Fast Cookie by Deputy Minisiter) 13
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G1 Florida Derby, 9 furlongs
4th, G2 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs (5)
2nd G3 Holy Bull, 8.5 furlongs (4)
2nd G1 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs (4)

What to do with Frosted? Had to drop him some. The track was tiring. Gulfstream Park overcompensated. Frosted may have won had this been the same track he ran over on for the Holy Bull.

8. Far From Over (Blame by Arch—Alchemist, by A.P. Indy) 10
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs/G1 Wood Memorial, 9 furlongs
G3 Withers Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)

The Gotham will tell a lot. He is bred for distance so that should not be the issue. Does he have the speed?

9. Bold Conquest (Curlin by Smart Strike – One For Jim by Distorted Humor) 7
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Next Race: G2 Rebel Stakes, 8.5 furlongs 
G3 Southwest Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (1)
3rd G1 Breeders Cup Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (2)
G3 Iroquois Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)

He made his first start and appeared to be closing well. He needs to move forward.

10. Competitive Edge (Super Saver by Maria's Mon – Magdalena's Choice by Cape Town)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs?
G1 Hopeful Stakes, 7 furlongs

He's still here waiting for the 1st start.

11. Ocean Knight (Curlin by Smart Strike - Ocean by Stormy Atlantic by Storm Cat)
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G3 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
Sam F. Davis, 8.5 furlongs

Imperia (Medaglia d'Oro by El Prado - Cocoa Beach by Doneraille Court by Seattle Slew) 4
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G2 Risen Star, 8.5 furlongs
2nd G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs (4)

Probably better suited for turf.

12. El Kabeir (Scat Daddy by Johannesberg - Great Venue by Unbridled Song) (25) 
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next race: G1 Wood Memorial, 9 furlongs
G3 Withers Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)
G3 Jerome Handicap, 8 furlongs (10)
G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs (10)
2nd G3 Nashua Stakes, 8 furlongs
4th G1 Champagne Stakes, 1 mile

Honorable Mentions

Lord Nelson (Pulpit by A.P. Indy - African Jade by Seeking the Gold) 1
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G2 San Felipe, 8.5 furlongs
G2 San Vicente, 7 furlongs
5th G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs 
Speakeasy Stakes, 6 furlongs
4th G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (1)

International Star (Fusaichi Pegasus by Mr. Prospector - Parlez by French Deputy) (71)
Trainer: MIchael Maker
Next Race: G2 Louisiana Derby, 9 furlongs
G2 Risen Star, 8.5 furlongs (50)
G3 Lecomte, 8 furlongs (10)
4th G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs
9th Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf, 8 furlongs
G3 Grey Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
2nd G2 With Anticipation Stakes, 8 furlongs
Rockville Centre, 6 furlongs

Have to mention this son of FuPeg at this point. He is really moving forward.

Classy Class (Discreetly Mine by Mineshaft –Collegiate by Saarland) 3
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G3 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
3rd G3 Withers Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (2)
4th G2 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs (1)

Tough Gotham contest expected. 

Bolo (Temple City by Dynaformer - Aspen Mountain by Chief Seattle by Seattle Slew)
Trainer: Carla Gaines
Next Race: G2 San Felipe Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
Eddie Logan Stakes, 1 mile

Well, he's back to try dirt. We'll see if he can do as well as some of his peers like Ocho, Ocho, Ocho  in making the transition.

Itsaknockout (Lemon Drop Kid by Kingmambo - Stormy B by Cherokee Run (50)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G1 Florida Derby, 9 furlongs
1st by DQ Fountain of Youth Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (50)

Love his pedigree. He has the points. He just needs to move forward.

Bayerd (Speightstown by - Cherokee Jewel by Cherokee Run) 4
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Next Race: G3 Southwest Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
2nd Smarty Jones Stakes, 8 furlongs (4)
Springboard Mile Stakes

It was a nice dream while it lasted.

Eagle (Candy Ride by Ride The Rails - Sea Gull by Mineshaft) 2
Trainer: Neil Howard
Next Race: G2 Risen Star Stakes
7th G3 Lecomte Stakes, 8 furlongs
3rd G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs  (2)

Time to move on. Hope to add him back.

Acceptance (Vronsky by Danzig – Allswellthatnswell by Perfect Mandate)
Trainer: Donald Warren
Next Race: San Felipe Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
4th California Cup, 8.5 furlongs
King Glorious Stakes
Golden State Juvenile Stakes

This will be his last chance to shine.

Ocho at #1 eh, Taz? Very cool.

I still have Pharoah at #1, if he makes it ... but if not, Ocho would likely be my #1 if he impresses once again in The San Felipe.

Sure would like to see Punctuate run another race at some point in his life. His debut was very impressive.

My eye is on Power Jam now too. His debut was quite impressive.

I just liked what Ocho did last year. I agreed with American Pharoah getting the Eclipse, but finishing the year I thought Ocho Ocho Ocho was the best horse.

If American Pharoah had not taken time off because of an injury I would have him up there.

I love him and I am so jealous you watch his gallops every morning at Santa Anita.

I am sorry that he'll be shipping out here so that neither of us will get to see his prep races.

To me he has the greatest potential to win the Triple Crown because he has such an efficient stride if he improves on his 2 year old form.

Dortmund I like, but I still wonder if the horses he has beaten are very good or just OK. I still do believe that this is another year where California has the edge on the East Coast in terms of top quality horses.

Ocho, AP, Dortmund, Lord Nelson, Bolo, Firing Line, Texas Red, Calculator, who was unfortunately hurt, and even Punctuate if he ever gets back to the track.

I do also believe that Mr. Baffert will win the Kentucky Derby this year. I think he has a very strong contingent.

The next six weekends will tell it all regarding the Kentucky Derby field.

Six straight weekends of significant racing...starting with the Tampa Bay Derby, Gotham and San Felipe.

I was sorry to see that Far From Over will be skipping the Gotham but any piece of the points in the Wood should be enough to get him in the gate for the Kentucky Derby.

This makes the San Felipe the most interesting race on the upcoming card...

I really cannot see Dortmund going in this race. Other than keeping him fit it really serves no purpose...since his Robert Lewis win places him far ahead of the curve for the rest of the field for the race...I suppose it could be an Upstart like move but Lord Nelson is in desperate need of points to make the Derby. Dortmund being there could push him back in the field making his Derby prospects that much more difficult. However, Dortmund on the bench would make him among the top horses in the race.

Ocho, Ocho Ocho, Prospect Park and Bolo round out a strong field. 

Well, so much for Dortmund not entering the San Felipe. It seems his owner said that he will participate.

Could he become the first horse since Pioneer of the Nile to win the Lewis, San Felipe and Santa Anita Derby?

We'll see.

Quote from: Man o Taz on March 02, 2015, 11:23:19 AM
Well, so much for Dortmund not entering the San Felipe. It seems his owner said that he will participate.

Could he become the first horse since Pioneer of the Nile to win the Lewis, San Felipe and Santa Anita Derby?

We'll see.

Great news!

It's proven a very good route, as of late ... if I'm not mistaken, I'll Have Another and California Chrome both ran that sequence if races ... and it turned out pretty darn well for them!  ;)

My favorites taking that route and all 3 races
were Silver Charm and Free House and then Serrena's Song
joined them in the SA Derby - what a race :chickendance:

I'm curious to see what Bolo does on dirt... his connections seem to be wavering about whether or not he is actually on the Derby trail.
Dortmund should go off the deserving favorite no matter who else runs, but I['m still not entirely sold on him for 10F.

Quote from: The Tin Man on March 04, 2015, 01:29:43 AM
Great news!

It's proven a very good route, as of late ... if I'm not mistaken, I'll Have Another and California Chrome both ran that sequence if races ... and it turned out pretty darn well for them!  ;)

Actually, Chrome hit the San Felipe after his California Cup win for Cal breds with our Tamarando 2nd and I'll Have Another won the Lewis and skipped the San Felipe.

But, others have been successful at it.

If you have a horse that ready to go - send him. I think this start will be a maintenance one for him - kind of like the Florida Derby for Orb and the Fountain of Youth for Upstart - he does not need to win the race - you want him to sharpen in his next one - the race before the Derby.

And looking at my Derby list - 3 of my top 4 have yet to start this year LOL.

That will change in the next 2 weeks - but maybe I am not that impressed with the starters so far this year. I would have been more on Texas Red's bandwagon IF he did not miss his second start.

Quote from: peeptoad on March 04, 2015, 06:23:23 AM
I'm curious to see what Bolo does on dirt... his connections seem to be wavering about whether or not he is actually on the Derby trail.
Dortmund should go off the deserving favorite no matter who else runs, but I['m still not entirely sold on him for 10F.

Me too. I wanted to add him to my list and was going to until he got pulled from dirt works...

Dortmund is interesting. He is so big - but so is Wise Dan and he's a miler though so was Frankel and we saw how his talent allowed him to stretch out.

And here is the latest Haskin Derby Dozen...

And Steve's latest  list...

1. American Pharoah
2. Dortmund
3. Carpe Diem
4. Upstart
5. Texas Red
5. Firing Line
6. Far From Over
8. Lord Nelson
9. Itsaknockout
10. Ocean Knight
11. Ocho Ocho Ocho
12. International Star

Bolo and Prospect Park on the cusp. 

http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/kentucky-derby-dozen/archive/2015/03/03/derby-dozen-march-3-2015-presented-by-shadwell-farm.aspx

What to do about Frosted?

I think he needs to be sent elsewhere. He is a talented horse. He finished well in the Remsen. He was 2nd in the Holy Bull. But perhaps send him to the Louisiana Derby or the Spiral Stakes for his final prep.

Quote from: Senator L on March 04, 2015, 04:46:49 AM
My favorites taking that route and all 3 races
were Silver Charm and Free House and then Serrena's Song
joined them in the SA Derby - what a race :chickendance:

Well sort of....  Free House and Silver Charm prepped for the San Felipe in the San Vicente as opposed to the Lewis which in those days was known as the Santa Catalina.  In the Santa Anita Derby they were joined by Sharp Cat with whom Silver Charm dueled on the lead before she gave way and Free House took over to duel with Silver Charm and out nod him.  Great race, I was there and remember it well.

Well,my two for the Derby are
Upstart
Dortmund

One that I like to add for third is Classy Class who is running Saturday at Aqueduct in the Gotham.
I

Prospect Park might be the price play in the San Felipe... unless Lord Nelson somehow can improve going 2 turns. Dortmund still the most likely winner, but I would take a chance with PP for a better payout.

Quote from: curtis on March 04, 2015, 12:37:03 PM
Well sort of....  Free House and Silver Charm prepped for the San Felipe in the San Vicente as opposed to the Lewis which in those days was known as the Santa Catalina.  In the Santa Anita Derby they were joined by Sharp Cat with whom Silver Charm dueled on the lead before she gave way and Free House took over to duel with Silver Charm and out nod him.  Great race, I was there and remember it well.

Thanks for the help...should have remembered Sharp Cat she was a good one.
You were there :OMG: must have been awesome. One of my all time favorite races

Quote from: Senator L on March 05, 2015, 02:10:05 PM
Thanks for the help...should have remembered Sharp Cat she was a good one.
You were there :OMG: must have been awesome. One of my all time favorite races

I believe that Sharp Cat was the last horse to run an official walkover when she won the Bayakoa at Hollywood Park in 1997.  There was some good racing going on in those days and because I was teaching high school at the time I had weekends free and got to see a lot of it live.  I remember Siphon beating Sandpit and Gentlemen in that year's Big 'Cap to give Papa Mandella a sweep of the trifecta.

A lot of movement...I am not sold on Prospect Park yet but those Cal-based horses are looking stronger and stronger week in and week out.

Its funny - each week I think the results will clarify the Derby options and they just seem to become murkier and murkier except for Dortmund who seems to be stepping up.

1. American Pharoah (Pioneer of the Nile by Empire Maker – Littleprincessemama by Yankee Gentleman by Storm Cat) 60
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G1 Arkansas Derby, 9 furlongs
G2 Rebel Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (50)
G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
G1 Del Mar Futurity, 7 furlongs

This week is "go" time. If he performs as well as his works have been this race could be special.

2. Dortmund (Big Brown by Boundary – Our Josephina by Tale Of The Cat) 70
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G1 Santa Anita Derby, 9 furlongs
G2 San Felipe Stakes, 8.5 Furlongs (50)
G3 Robert Lewis Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
G1 Los Alamitos Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (10)

He answered the one question I had about him - could he show that he can best other horses besides Firing Line and Mr. Z. A strong field in the San Felipe.

3. Upstart (Flatter by A.P. Indy - by Touch Gold 36
Trainer: Richard Violette
Next Race: G1 Wood Memorial, 9 furlongs
2nd G2 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs (20)
G3 Holy Bull, 8.5 furlongs (10)
3rd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (2)
2nd G1 Champagne Stakes, 8 furlongs (4)
Funny Cide Stakes, 6.5 furlongs

Is he going in the Wood or the Florida Derby. I heard he left Florida and then he didn't.

4. Carpe Diem (Giants Causeway by Storm Cat – Rebridled Dreams – Unbridled Song) 64
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G1 Bluegrass Stakes, 9 furlongs.
G2 Tampa Bay Derby, 9 furlongs (50)
2nd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (4)
G1 Breeders Cup Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (10)

5. Ocho Ocho Ocho (Street Sense by Street Cry – Winner by South African Triple Crown winner Horse Chestnut) 10
Trainer: James Cassidy
Next Race: G1 Santa Anita Derby, 9 furlongs
7th G2 San Felipe, 8.5 furlongs
G2 Delta Jackpot, 8.5 furlongs
G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint, 6.5 furlongs (10)

He had some rust to shake off. Let's see how far he moves up his next outing.

I do not think he liked the Santa Anita surface. He was tight early and never seemed to get comfortable. I would be interested to hear what Mike Smith had to say.

6. Far From Over (Blame by Arch—Alchemist, by A.P. Indy) 10
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs/G1 Wood Memorial, 9 furlongs
G3 Withers Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)

I did not like skipping the Gotham. He is mature beyond his experience, but I question his fitness for the Derby. Can he do it? Maybe. However, he will not be as fit as horses like Dortmund, Upstart, International Star, and El Kabeir.

6. Texas Red (Afleet Alex by Northern Afleet – Rematuelle by Jeune Homme by Nureyev) 12
Trainer: Keith Desormaeaux
Next Race: G1 Santa Anita Derby/G1 Arkansas Derby
2nd G2 San Vicente, 7 furlolngs
G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (10)
2nd G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (2)

If he is not back galloping by this week, he will be dropped since I see little chance of him making the gate in the Kentucky Derby because of fitness issues. 

8. Bold Conquest (Curlin by Smart Strike – One For Jim by Distorted Humor) 17
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Next Race: G1 Arkansas Derby, 9 furlongs
3rd G2 Rebel Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
G3 Southwest Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (1)
3rd G1 Breeders Cup Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (2)
G3 Iroquois Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)

He made his first start of 2015 and appeared to be closing well. He needs to move forward.

10. Competitive Edge (Super Saver by Maria's Mon – Magdalena's Choice by Cape Town)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs?
G1 Hopeful Stakes, 7 furlongs

He's still here waiting for the 1st start.

9. El Kabeir (Scat Daddy by Johannesberg - Great Venue by Unbridled Song) (74) 
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next race: G1 Wood Memorial, 9 furlongs
G2 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (50)
2nd G3 Withers Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)
G3 Jerome Handicap, 8 furlongs (10)
G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs (10)
2nd G3 Nashua Stakes, 8 furlongs
4th G1 Champagne Stakes, 1 mile

He won it in impressive fashion. The field was not as strong as it might have been, but he won easily putting his Withers loss in the rearview mirror.

10. Lord Nelson (Pulpit by A.P. Indy - African Jade by Seeking the Gold)6
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G1 Santa Anita Derby, 9 furlongs
4th G2 San Felipe, 8.5 furlongs (5)
G2 San Vicente, 7 furlongs
5th G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs 
Speakeasy Stakes, 6 furlongs
4th G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (1)

11.  Frosted (Tapit by Pulpit – Fast Cookie by Deputy Minisiter) 13
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G1 Florida Derby, 9 furlongs
4th, G2 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs (5)
2nd G3 Holy Bull, 8.5 furlongs (4)
2nd G1 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs (4)

What to do with Frosted? Had to drop him some. The track was tiring. Gulfstream Park overcompensated. Frosted may have won had this been the same track he ran over on for the Holy Bull.

12.International Star (Fusaichi Pegasus by Mr. Prospector - Parlez by French Deputy) (71)
Trainer: MIchael Maker
Next Race: G2 Louisiana Derby, 9 furlongs
G2 Risen Star, 8.5 furlongs (50)
G3 Lecomte, 8 furlongs (10)
4th G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs
9th Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf, 8 furlongs
G3 Grey Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
2nd G2 With Anticipation Stakes, 8 furlongs
Rockville Centre, 6 furlongs

Have to mention this son of FuPeg at this point. He is really moving forward.

Honorable Mentions

Ocean Knight (Curlin by Smart Strike - Ocean by Stormy Atlantic by Storm Cat)
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G1 Wood Memorial
G2 Tampa Bay Derby, 8.5 furlongs
Sam F. Davis, 8.5 furlongs

Well, this was his surface and he through in a clunker. That happens. We'll see how he does next outing, but he has 0 Derby points.

Classy Class (Discreetly Mine by Mineshaft –Collegiate by Saarland) 13
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G1 Wood Memorial, 9 furlongs
3rd G3 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
3rd G3 Withers Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (2)
4th G2 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs (1)

Can he move forward enough his next outing to make it into the Derby field?

Bolo (Temple City by Dynaformer - Aspen Mountain by Chief Seattle by Seattle Slew) 10
Trainer: Carla Gaines
Next Race: G1 Santa Anita Derby, 9 furlongs
3rd G2 San Felipe Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
Eddie Logan Stakes, 1 mile

He finished third so either he hated the dirt and still ran well or he had no problem with it. Can he move forward in a crowded and strong California-based Derby crop?

He seemed like he had a ton of run in him and that dirt was no problem at all.

Itsaknockout (Lemon Drop Kid by Kingmambo - Stormy B by Cherokee Run (50)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G1 Florida Derby, 9 furlongs
1st by DQ Fountain of Youth Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (50)

Love his pedigree. He has the points. He just needs to move forward. Will there be anyone in the Florida Derby to take him on?

Acceptance (Vronsky by Danzig – Allswellthatnswell by Perfect Mandate)
Trainer: Donald Warren
Next Race: San Felipe Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
4th California Cup, 8.5 furlongs
King Glorious Stakes
Golden State Juvenile Stakes

This will be his last chance to shine.

Upstart is going to the FL Derby.

I spoke with Jim Cassidy at Clocjer's Sunday morning ... he said Ocho got a bunch of cuts and scratches out of the gate on Saturday ... so he said that race us a throw out.

Nothing major though. Damn shame, as I was really looking forward to his race.

Quote from: Raven on March 09, 2015, 10:45:47 AM
Upstart is going to the FL Derby.

Yes. Very disappointed, but I understand with Khozan being out and the weather still being unpredictable he should at least get second points.

First he's gone to NY and then he 's back in FL. 

Quote from: The Tin Man on March 10, 2015, 09:27:15 AM
I spoke with Jim Cassidy at Clocjer's Sunday morning ... he said Ocho got a bunch of cuts and scratches out of the gate on Saturday ... so he said that race us a throw out.

Nothing major though. Damn shame, as I was really looking forward to his race.

That is good to hear. His performance seemed totally out of character. I was wondering if he just did not carry his 2 year old form forward. Seemed bizarre given how well he had been training.

And Steve's March 10th edition...

1. American Pharoah
2. Dortmund
3. Carpe Diem
4. Upstart
5. Bolo
6. Firing Line
7. Prospect Park
8. Texas Red
9. Far From Over
10. Itsaknockout
11. International Star
12. El Kabeir

http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/kentucky-derby-dozen/archive/2015/03/10/derby-dozen-march-10-2015-presented-by-shadwell-farm.aspx

Well ... The 'ol future bet on American Pharoah continues to look really good ... just wish I'd have had more money to invest in it at the time ... got 10-1 or 12-1 on him, I believe.

Indeed, it does.

He looks like the real deal.

Another son of Pioneer of the Nile, Cairo Prince, was one of my early Derby choices last year before Chrome was on my radar.

I like the fact that he had to race on an off track. Did not like the shoe issue because it could have hurt him, but he overcame that as well.

Wow.

Guess I'll keep him on top.

Glad to see Made From Lucky doing well, too.

A solid performance by American Pharoah.

Was it dominating? Maybe - but I'd like to see his next race against a stronger field.

Add Far Right to the mix and let's see Madefromlucky step up.

1. American Pharoah (Pioneer of the Nile by Empire Maker – Littleprincessemama by Yankee Gentleman by Storm Cat) 60
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G1 Arkansas Derby, 9 furlongs
G2 Rebel Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (50)
G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
G1 Del Mar Futurity, 7 furlongs

He stays on top.

2. Dortmund (Big Brown by Boundary – Our Josephina by Tale Of The Cat) 70
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G1 Santa Anita Derby, 9 furlongs
G2 San Felipe Stakes, 8.5 Furlongs (50)
G3 Robert Lewis Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
G1 Los Alamitos Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (10)

He answered the one question I had about him - could he show that he can best other horses besides Firing Line and Mr. Z. A strong field in the San Felipe.

3. Upstart (Flatter by A.P. Indy - by Touch Gold 36
Trainer: Richard Violette
Next Race: G1 Florida Derby, 9 furlongs
2nd G2 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs (20)
G3 Holy Bull, 8.5 furlongs (10)
3rd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (2)
2nd G1 Champagne Stakes, 8 furlongs (4)
Funny Cide Stakes, 6.5 furlongs

FLa Derby

4. Carpe Diem (Giants Causeway by Storm Cat – Rebridled Dreams – Unbridled Song) 64
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G1 Bluegrass Stakes, 9 furlongs.
G2 Tampa Bay Derby, 9 furlongs (50)
2nd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (4)
G1 Breeders Cup Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (10)

5. Ocho Ocho Ocho (Street Sense by Street Cry – Winner by South African Triple Crown winner Horse Chestnut) 10
Trainer: James Cassidy
Next Race: G1 Santa Anita Derby, 9 furlongs
7th G2 San Felipe, 8.5 furlongs
G2 Delta Jackpot, 8.5 furlongs
G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint, 6.5 furlongs (10)

He had some rust to shake off. Let's see how far he moves up his next outing.

I do not think he liked the Santa Anita surface. He was tight early and never seemed to get comfortable. I would be interested to hear what Mike Smith had to say.

6. Far From Over (Blame by Arch—Alchemist, by A.P. Indy) 10
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs/G1 Wood Memorial, 9 furlongs
G3 Withers Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)

I did not like skipping the Gotham. He is mature beyond his experience, but I question his fitness for the Derby. Can he do it? Maybe. However, he will not be as fit as horses like Dortmund, Upstart, International Star, and El Kabeir.

Texas Red (Afleet Alex by Northern Afleet – Rematuelle by Jeune Homme by Nureyev) 12
Trainer: Keith Desormaeaux
Next Race: G1 Santa Anita Derby/G1 Arkansas Derby
2nd G2 San Vicente, 7 furlolngs
G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (10)
2nd G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (2)

He's back. We'll see what that really means on down the road, but with my scoring of points he probably only needs a 4th place finish to make it into the Derby. That would give him 2 points more than the 20 point holders. At this stage, he would be a shoe in unless a lot of new entrants find success.

Good to see they are doing right by Texas Red.

I would say Firing Line will be the favorite and perhaps win the Sunland Derby. Frankly, some of the Santa Anita Derby horses should head there like Ocho Ocho Ocho, Lord Nelson or Prospect Park.

The Spiral will likely be won by Royal Son  or Imperia.

And then we have the big races.

7. Bold Conquest (Curlin by Smart Strike – One For Jim by Distorted Humor) 17
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Next Race: G1 Arkansas Derby, 9 furlongs
3rd G2 Rebel Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
G3 Southwest Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (1)
3rd G1 Breeders Cup Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (2)
G3 Iroquois Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)

Well, slowly but surely he is getting the points. However, the connections want to see more before they enter him in the Derby.

8. El Kabeir (Scat Daddy by Johannesberg - Great Venue by Unbridled Song) (75) 
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next race: G1 Wood Memorial, 9 furlongs
G2 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (50)
2nd G3 Withers Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)
G3 Jerome Handicap, 8 furlongs (10)
G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs (10)
2nd G3 Nashua Stakes, 8 furlongs
4th G1 Champagne Stakes, 1 mile  (1)

Bring on Far From Over - though he need not win the Wood to be in the Derby. So Wood may just be for a freshening.

9. Lord Nelson (Pulpit by A.P. Indy - African Jade by Seeking the Gold)6
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G3 Sunalnd Derby y, 9 furlongs
4th G2 San Felipe, 8.5 furlongs (5)
G2 San Vicente, 7 furlongs
5th G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs 
Speakeasy Stakes, 6 furlongs
4th G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (1)

He needs points, points, points.

No one to blame for the performance in this last race.

10.  Frosted (Tapit by Pulpit – Fast Cookie by Deputy Minisiter) 13
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G1 Wood Memorial, 9 furlongs
4th, G2 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs (5)
2nd G3 Holy Bull, 8.5 furlongs (4)
2nd G1 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs (4)

Glad to hear he is targeting the Wood Memorial. A 2nd or 3rd should get him into the Derby. I wonder if Ocean Knight will be there too or head to the Bluegrass Stakes.

11.International Star (Fusaichi Pegasus by Mr. Prospector - Parlez by French Deputy) (71)
Trainer: MIchael Maker
Next Race: G2 Louisiana Derby, 9 furlongs
G2 Risen Star, 8.5 furlongs (50)
G3 Lecomte, 8 furlongs (10)
4th G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs
9th Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf, 8 furlongs
G3 Grey Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
2nd G2 With Anticipation Stakes, 8 furlongs
Rockville Centre, 6 furlongs

Have to mention this son of FuPeg at this point. He is really moving forward.

12. Madefromlucky (Lookin At Lucky by Smart Strike - Home From Oz by Pulpit) 20
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G1 Arkansas Derby, 9 furlongs
2nd G2 Rebel Stakes, 8.5 furlongs

I really like this horse. The Arkansas Derby could be quite a test if it features a rehabbed Texas Red, Made From Lucky, Bold Conquest, and The Truth Or Elder with American Pharoah. Wow.

Honorable Mentions

Firing Line (Line of David by Lionheart - Sister Girl Blues by Hold For Gold) 58
Trainer: Simon Callaghan
Next Race: G1 Kentucky Derby, 10 furlongs
G2 Sunland Derby, 9 furlongs (50)
2nd G2 Robert Lewis Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)
2nd G1 Cash Call Futurity, 8.5 furlongs(4)

Ocean Knight (Curlin by Smart Strike - Ocean by Stormy Atlantic by Storm Cat)
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G1 Wood Memorial
G2 Tampa Bay Derby, 8.5 furlongs
Sam F. Davis, 8.5 furlongs

Well, this was his surface and he through in a clunker. That happens. We'll see how he does next outing, but he has 0 Derby points.

Classy Class (Discreetly Mine by Mineshaft –Collegiate by Saarland) 13
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G1 Wood Memorial, 9 furlongs
3rd G3 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
3rd G3 Withers Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (2)
4th G2 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs (1)

Can he move forward enough his next outing to make it into the Derby field?A 4th place finish would likely do it.

Bolo (Temple City by Dynaformer - Aspen Mountain by Chief Seattle by Seattle Slew) 10
Trainer: Carla Gaines
Next Race: G1 Santa Anita Derby, 9 furlongs
3rd G2 San Felipe Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
Eddie Logan Stakes, 1 mile

He finished third so either he hated the dirt and still ran well or he had no problem with it. Can he move forward in a crowded and strong California-based Derby crop?

He seemed like he had a ton of run in him and that dirt was no problem at all.

Itsaknockout (Lemon Drop Kid by Kingmambo - Stormy B by Cherokee Run (50)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G1 Florida Derby, 9 furlongs
1st by DQ Fountain of Youth Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (50)

Love his pedigree. He has the points. He just needs to move forward. Will there be anyone in the Florida Derby to take him on?

I think Lord Nelson is running this weekend in the Sunland Derby

Baffert is loaded with American Pharoah and Dortmund. Still hoping that Texas Red gets in there. The Derby picture is starting to take shape.

One horse who doesn't seem to get much love is El Kabeir
Last future wager pool he was almost 50-1
and he's been showing up at every dance

Quote from: afleetphil on March 16, 2015, 01:36:23 PM
Baffert is loaded with American Pharoah and Dortmund. Still hoping that Texas Red gets in there. The Derby picture is starting to take shape.

Just announced he is off the derby trail.

Quote from: Senator L on March 16, 2015, 07:30:14 PM
One horse who doesn't seem to get much love is El Kabeir
Last future wager pool he was almost 50-1
and he's been showing up at every dance

People just think he isn't good enough - but he's a gutsy horse that when he brings his "A" game can be competitive with almost anyone and coming from behind last race gave him a whole different look. The big test will be the Wood - BUT he does not have to win that...it should be a warm up race where he has nothing to prove. Should he win it though many more people will give him a 2nd look.

I just saw that. Rats. Would have liked to see an Afleet Alex win the Derby. But maybe it's a blessing.

Quote from: afleetphil on March 17, 2015, 07:13:10 AM
I just saw that. Rats. Would have liked to see an Afleet Alex win the Derby. But maybe it's a blessing.

Well, he does have another horse on the right coast who seems precocious in Materiality who won the Islamadora Stakes.

He may be sent to the Florida Derby or another Derby prep race.

We'll see.

Quote from: Senator L on March 16, 2015, 01:11:17 PM
I think Lord Nelson is running this weekend in the Sunland Derby

Thanks for the heads up.

Too bad about Far From Over and Mr. Z is getting his deserved rest.

1. American Pharoah (Pioneer of the Nile by Empire Maker – Littleprincessemama by Yankee Gentleman by Storm Cat) 60
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G1 Arkansas Derby, 9 furlongs
G2 Rebel Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (50)
G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
G1 Del Mar Futurity, 7 furlongs

He stays on top, but his second start I expect to see something more from him if he is to remain there.

2. Dortmund (Big Brown by Boundary – Our Josephina by Tale Of The Cat) 70
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G1 Santa Anita Derby, 9 furlongs
G2 San Felipe Stakes, 8.5 Furlongs (50)
G3 Robert Lewis Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
G1 Los Alamitos Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (10)

Is he going to deliver another stellar performance? How much can a horse keep moving forward. He has yet to bounce which worries me since the Derby could end up being his bounce race, or maybe he, not American Pharoah, is the  top horse of this generation.

3. Upstart (Flatter by A.P. Indy - by Touch Gold 36
Trainer: Richard Violette
Next Race: G1 Florida Derby, 9 furlongs
2nd G2 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs (20)
G3 Holy Bull, 8.5 furlongs (10)
3rd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (2)
2nd G1 Champagne Stakes, 8 furlongs (4)
Funny Cide Stakes, 6.5 furlongs

I thought he was robbed again by the stewards. It was the same issue with the FOY. The horse that was going to win fouled the other horse, and this time the former stayed up whereas last time he came down.

4. Carpe Diem (Giants Causeway by Storm Cat – Rebridled Dreams – Unbridled Song) 64
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G1 Bluegrass Stakes, 9 furlongs.
G2 Tampa Bay Derby, 9 furlongs (50)
2nd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (4)
G1 Breeders Cup Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (10)

All things could change if he delivers another strong performance. He is going against a stronger field.

5. Mubtaahij (Dubawi by Dubai Millenium by Seeking The Gold - Pennegale by Pennekamp) 100

Trainer: Michael DeKock
Next Race: Kentucky Derby
G2 UAE Derby, 9.5 furlongs
Al Bastakiya, 9 furlongs and 110 yards
2nd UAE Two Thousand Guineas, 8 furlongs

6. Ocho Ocho Ocho (Street Sense by Street Cry – Winner by South African Triple Crown winner Horse Chestnut) 10
Trainer: James Cassidy
Next Race: G1 Santa Anita Derby, 9 furlongs
7th G2 San Felipe, 8.5 furlongs
G2 Delta Jackpot, 8.5 furlongs
G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint, 6.5 furlongs (10)

Matched against Carpe Diem this is his chance to show just how good he is. 

6. Far From Over (Blame by Arch—Alchemist, by A.P. Indy) 10
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs/G1 Wood Memorial, 9 furlongs
G3 Withers Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)

I did not like skipping the Gotham and now we see why. Sad to see him go.

7. International Star (Fusaichi Pegasus by Mr. Prospector - Parlez by French Deputy) (171)
Trainer: MIchael Maker
Next Race: G1 Kentucky Derby, 10 furlongs
G2 Louisiana Derby, 9 furlongs
G2 Risen Star, 8.5 furlongs (50)
G3 Lecomte, 8 furlongs (10)
4th G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs (1)
9th Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf, 8 furlongs
G3 Grey Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
2nd G2 With Anticipation Stakes, 8 furlongs
Rockville Centre, 6 furlongs

FuPeg's most promising son since Premier Pegasus. Unless El Kabeir wins the Wood, this is the points leader on Derby day.

8. Bold Conquest (Curlin by Smart Strike – One For Jim by Distorted Humor) 17
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Next Race: G1 Arkansas Derby, 9 furlongs
3rd G2 Rebel Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
G3 Southwest Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (1)
3rd G1 Breeders Cup Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (2)
G3 Iroquois Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)

Well, slowly but surely he is getting the points. However, the connections want to see more before they enter him in the Derby.

9. El Kabeir (Scat Daddy by Johannesberg - Great Venue by Unbridled Song) (75) 
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next race: G1 Wood Memorial, 9 furlongs
G2 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (50)
2nd G3 Withers Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)
G3 Jerome Handicap, 8 furlongs (10)
G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs (10)
2nd G3 Nashua Stakes, 8 furlongs
4th G1 Champagne Stakes, 1 mile  (1)

Bring on Far From Over - though he need not win the Wood to be in the Derby. So Wood may just be for a freshening.

9. Lord Nelson (Pulpit by A.P. Indy - African Jade by Seeking the Gold)6
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G3 Sunalnd Derby y, 9 furlongs
4th G2 San Felipe, 8.5 furlongs (5)
G2 San Vicente, 7 furlongs
5th G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs 
Speakeasy Stakes, 6 furlongs
4th G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (1)

Headed to the Bayshore the Derby is off his radar. I still wonder if he might head to the Preakness Stakes.

10.  Frosted (Tapit by Pulpit – Fast Cookie by Deputy Minisiter) 13
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G1 Wood Memorial, 9 furlongs
4th, G2 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs (5)
2nd G3 Holy Bull, 8.5 furlongs (4)
2nd G1 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs (4)

Well, the elimination of Far From Over should help him get into the Derby. However, El Kabeir deserves to remain top horse given his Aqueduct efforts this year. We'll see how they do competing on the outer dirt track. Last time Frosted was 2nd in the Remsen when he raced here.

11. Madefromlucky (Lookin At Lucky by Smart Strike - Home From Oz by Pulpit) 20
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G1 Arkansas Derby, 9 furlongs
2nd G2 Rebel Stakes, 8.5 furlongs

I expect to see him move forward here. With Far Right in it and American Pharoah, this could be a very strong race when you also add Bold Conquest and The Truth or Else.

12. Firing Line (Line of David by Lionheart - Sister Girl Blues by Hold For Gold) 58
Trainer: Simon Callaghan
Next Race: G1 Kentucky Derby, 10 furlongs
G2 Sunland Derby, 9 furlongs (50)
2nd G2 Robert Lewis Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)
2nd G1 Cash Call Futurity, 8.5 furlongs(4)

Will the long lay off make him rusty? We'll see.

Honorable Mentions

Materiality (Afleet Alex by Northern Afleet - Wildwood Flower by Langfuhr) 100
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G1 Kentucky Derby, 10 furlongs
G1 Florida Derby, 9 furlongs

Apollo's curse has me. I do not think he has the foundation to win. Is he a competitor? Definitely. I think he is this year's Bodemeister.If he enters the Kentucky Derby, he'll do well in Triple Crown races, but he will not win. If saved for the Preakness Stakes, it could be a different story, but his connections smell roses.

Bolo (Temple City by Dynaformer - Aspen Mountain by Chief Seattle by Seattle Slew) 10
Trainer: Carla Gaines
Next Race: G1 Santa Anita Derby, 9 furlongs
3rd G2 San Felipe Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
Eddie Logan Stakes, 1 mile

Ocho, Ocho, Ocho's defection helps him. Third place should be enough to get him into the Derby. Can he turn the tables on Prospect Park and Dortmund. I think he can. I think Prospect Park may bounce in this race and finish 3rd or 4th.

Ocean Knight (Curlin by Smart Strike - Ocean by Stormy Atlantic by Storm Cat)
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G1 Wood Memorial
G2 Tampa Bay Derby, 8.5 furlongs
Sam F. Davis, 8.5 furlongs

Classy Class (Discreetly Mine by Mineshaft –Collegiate by Saarland) 13
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G1 Bluegrass Stakes, 9 furlongs
3rd G3 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
3rd G3 Withers Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (2)
4th G2 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs (1)

Can he move forward enough his next outing to make it into the Derby field?A 3rd place finish would likely do it.

Itsaknockout (Lemon Drop Kid by Kingmambo - Stormy B by Cherokee Run (60)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G1 Kentucky Derby, 10 furlongs
4th G1 Florida Derby, 9 furlongs
1st by DQ Fountain of Youth Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (50)

Love his pedigree. He has the points. He just needs to move forward. His last race I did not think was too impressive.

I thought he was exhausted in the Fountain of Youth which led to his interference with Upstart that was dismissed.

Perhaps this will help condition him for the Kentucky Derby.

Steve Haskin's Derby Dozen

http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/kentucky-derby-dozen/archive/2015/03/31/derby-dozen-march-31-2015-presented-by-shadwell-farm.aspx

Quote from: Man o Taz on April 01, 2015, 07:52:40 AM
Too bad about Far From Over and Mr. Z is getting his deserved rest.

1. American Pharoah (Pioneer of the Nile by Empire Maker – Littleprincessemama by Yankee Gentleman by Storm Cat) 60
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G1 Arkansas Derby, 9 furlongs
G2 Rebel Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (50)
G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
G1 Del Mar Futurity, 7 furlongs

He stays on top, but his second start I expect to see something more from him if he is to remain there.

2. Dortmund (Big Brown by Boundary – Our Josephina by Tale Of The Cat) 70
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G1 Santa Anita Derby, 9 furlongs
G2 San Felipe Stakes, 8.5 Furlongs (50)
G3 Robert Lewis Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
G1 Los Alamitos Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (10)

Is he going to deliver another stellar performance? How much can a horse keep moving forward. He has yet to bounce which worries me since the Derby could end up being his bounce race, or maybe he, not American Pharoah, is the  top horse of this generation.

3. Upstart (Flatter by A.P. Indy - by Touch Gold 36
Trainer: Richard Violette
Next Race: G1 Florida Derby, 9 furlongs
2nd G2 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs (20)
G3 Holy Bull, 8.5 furlongs (10)
3rd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (2)
2nd G1 Champagne Stakes, 8 furlongs (4)
Funny Cide Stakes, 6.5 furlongs

I thought he was robbed again by the stewards. It was the same issue with the FOY. The horse that was going to win fouled the other horse, and this time the former stayed up whereas last time he came down.

4. Carpe Diem (Giants Causeway by Storm Cat – Rebridled Dreams – Unbridled Song) 64
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G1 Bluegrass Stakes, 9 furlongs.
G2 Tampa Bay Derby, 9 furlongs (50)
2nd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (4)
G1 Breeders Cup Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (10)

All things could change if he delivers another strong performance. He is going against a stronger field.

5. Mubtaahij (Dubawi by Dubai Millenium by Seeking The Gold - Pennegale by Pennekamp) 100

Trainer: Michael DeKock
Next Race: Kentucky Derby
G2 UAE Derby, 9.5 furlongs
Al Bastakiya, 9 furlongs and 110 yards
2nd UAE Two Thousand Guineas, 8 furlongs

6. Ocho Ocho Ocho (Street Sense by Street Cry – Winner by South African Triple Crown winner Horse Chestnut) 10
Trainer: James Cassidy
Next Race: G1 Santa Anita Derby, 9 furlongs
7th G2 San Felipe, 8.5 furlongs
G2 Delta Jackpot, 8.5 furlongs
G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint, 6.5 furlongs (10)

Matched against Carpe Diem this is his chance to show just how good he is. 

6. Far From Over (Blame by Arch—Alchemist, by A.P. Indy) 10
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs/G1 Wood Memorial, 9 furlongs
G3 Withers Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)

I did not like skipping the Gotham and now we see why. Sad to see him go.

7. International Star (Fusaichi Pegasus by Mr. Prospector - Parlez by French Deputy) (171)
Trainer: MIchael Maker
Next Race: G1 Kentucky Derby, 10 furlongs
G2 Louisiana Derby, 9 furlongs
G2 Risen Star, 8.5 furlongs (50)
G3 Lecomte, 8 furlongs (10)
4th G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs
9th Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf, 8 furlongs
G3 Grey Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
2nd G2 With Anticipation Stakes, 8 furlongs
Rockville Centre, 6 furlongs

FuPeg's most promising son since Premier Pegasus. Unless El Kabeir wins the Wood, this is the points leader on Derby day.

8. Bold Conquest (Curlin by Smart Strike – One For Jim by Distorted Humor) 17
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Next Race: G1 Arkansas Derby, 9 furlongs
3rd G2 Rebel Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
G3 Southwest Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (1)
3rd G1 Breeders Cup Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (2)
G3 Iroquois Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)

Well, slowly but surely he is getting the points. However, the connections want to see more before they enter him in the Derby.

9. El Kabeir (Scat Daddy by Johannesberg - Great Venue by Unbridled Song) (75) 
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next race: G1 Wood Memorial, 9 furlongs
G2 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (50)
2nd G3 Withers Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)
G3 Jerome Handicap, 8 furlongs (10)
G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs (10)
2nd G3 Nashua Stakes, 8 furlongs
4th G1 Champagne Stakes, 1 mile  (1)

Bring on Far From Over - though he need not win the Wood to be in the Derby. So Wood may just be for a freshening.

9. Lord Nelson (Pulpit by A.P. Indy - African Jade by Seeking the Gold)6
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G3 Sunalnd Derby y, 9 furlongs
4th G2 San Felipe, 8.5 furlongs (5)
G2 San Vicente, 7 furlongs
5th G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs 
Speakeasy Stakes, 6 furlongs
4th G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (1)

Headed to the Bayshore the Derby is off his radar. I still wonder if he might head to the Preakness Stakes.

10.  Frosted (Tapit by Pulpit – Fast Cookie by Deputy Minisiter) 13
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G1 Wood Memorial, 9 furlongs
4th, G2 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs (5)
2nd G3 Holy Bull, 8.5 furlongs (4)
2nd G1 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs (4)

Well, the elimination of Far From Over should help him get into the Derby. However, El Kabeir deserves to remain top horse given his Aqueduct efforts this year. We'll see how they do competing on the outer dirt track. Last time Frosted was 2nd in the Remsen when he raced here.

11. Madefromlucky (Lookin At Lucky by Smart Strike - Home From Oz by Pulpit) 20
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G1 Arkansas Derby, 9 furlongs
2nd G2 Rebel Stakes, 8.5 furlongs

I expect to see him move forward here. With Far Right in it and American Pharoah, this could be a very strong race when you also add Bold Conquest and The Truth or Else.

12. Firing Line (Line of David by Lionheart - Sister Girl Blues by Hold For Gold) 58
Trainer: Simon Callaghan
Next Race: G1 Kentucky Derby, 10 furlongs
G2 Sunland Derby, 9 furlongs (50)
2nd G2 Robert Lewis Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)
2nd G1 Cash Call Futurity, 8.5 furlongs(4)

Will the long lay off make him rusty? We'll see.

Honorable Mentions

Materiality (Afleet Alex by Northern Afleet - Wildwood Flower by Langfuhr) 100
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G1 Kentucky Derby, 10 furlongs
G1 Florida Derby, 9 furlongs

Apollo's curse has me. I do not think he has the foundation to win. Is he a competitor? Definitely. I think he is this year's Bodemeister.If he enters the Kentucky Derby, he'll do well in Triple Crown races, but he will not win. If saved for the Preakness Stakes, it could be a different story, but his connections smell roses.

Bolo (Temple City by Dynaformer - Aspen Mountain by Chief Seattle by Seattle Slew) 10
Trainer: Carla Gaines
Next Race: G1 Santa Anita Derby, 9 furlongs
3rd G2 San Felipe Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
Eddie Logan Stakes, 1 mile

Ocho, Ocho, Ocho's defection helps him. Third place should be enough to get him into the Derby. Can he turn the tables on Prospect Park and Dortmund. I think he can. I think Prospect Park may bounce in this race and finish 3rd or 4th.

Ocean Knight (Curlin by Smart Strike - Ocean by Stormy Atlantic by Storm Cat)
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G1 Wood Memorial
G2 Tampa Bay Derby, 8.5 furlongs
Sam F. Davis, 8.5 furlongs

Classy Class (Discreetly Mine by Mineshaft –Collegiate by Saarland) 13
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G1 Bluegrass Stakes, 9 furlongs
3rd G3 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
3rd G3 Withers Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (2)
4th G2 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs (1)

Can he move forward enough his next outing to make it into the Derby field?A 3rd place finish would likely do it.

Itsaknockout (Lemon Drop Kid by Kingmambo - Stormy B by Cherokee Run (60)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G1 Kentucky Derby, 10 furlongs
4th G1 Florida Derby, 9 furlongs
1st by DQ Fountain of Youth Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (50)

Love his pedigree. He has the points. He just needs to move forward. His last race I did not think was too impressive.

I thought he was exhausted in the Fountain of Youth which led to his interference with Upstart that was dismissed.

Perhaps this will help condition him for the Kentucky Derby.

Well done - Thank YOU!

Getting down to the wire.

1. American Pharoah (Pioneer of the Nile by Empire Maker – Littleprincessemama by Yankee Gentleman by Storm Cat) 60
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G1 Arkansas Derby, 9 furlongs
G2 Rebel Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (50)
G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
G1 Del Mar Futurity, 7 furlongs

Judgment Day is getting near. His works say he's heading into the race strong. He seems to work a little bit faster than Dortmund. We'll see if he can race faster. 

Far Right just worked so there will be 5 horses with a chance in this race.

2. Dortmund (Big Brown by Boundary – Our Josephina by Tale Of The Cat) 170
Trainer: Bob Baffert

G1 Santa Anita Derby, 9 furlongs (100)
G2 San Felipe Stakes, 8.5 Furlongs (50)
G3 Robert Lewis Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
G1 Los Alamitos Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (10)

He has yet to bounce which worries me since the Derby could end up being his bounce race, or maybe he, not American Pharoah, is the  top horse of this generation.

Keeps moving forward. Nice finish in the SA Derby. I think he's lazy. As long as you keep him interested he'll give you everything he has. That may explain why his works are not sharper than AP's overall. Then again, they both drilled the same 1:11.60 their final work.

3.  Carpe Diem (Giants Causeway by Storm Cat – Rebridled Dreams – Unbridled Song) 164
Trainer: Todd Pletcher

G1 Bluegrass Stakes, 9 furlongs. (100)
G2 Tampa Bay Derby, 9 furlongs (50)
2nd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (4)
G1 Breeders Cup Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (10)

I thought his performance was strong in the Bluegrass Stakes. I think he is going into the Derby well. Folks suggest his competition is lacking and that he has not been tested, but I believe his class is so strong that he makes good horses look much weaker than they are. We'll see.

4. Mubtaahij (Dubawi by Dubai Millenium by Seeking The Gold - Pennegale by Pennekamp) 100

Trainer: Michael DeKock

G2 UAE Derby, 9.5 furlongs
Al Bastakiya, 9 furlongs and 110 yards
2nd UAE Two Thousand Guineas, 8 furlongs

5. Frosted (Tapit by Pulpit – Fast Cookie by Deputy Minisiter) 113
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin

G1 Wood Memorial, 9 furlongs (100)
4th, G2 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs (5)
2nd G3 Holy Bull, 8.5 furlongs (4)
2nd G1 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs (4)

This was the Frosted that we had all been looking for. Winning easily he looks like a top Derby contender. It seems like Florida helped condition him well for this race.

Kudos to the McLaughlin team for the win.

I believe this is Godolphin's first G1 win in a Derby prep, although Gayego won the Arkansas Derby in 2008 when it was a G2, and Discreet Cat won the UAE Derby thereabouts, as well. .

6. Upstart (Flatter by A.P. Indy - by Touch Gold 76
Trainer: Richard Violette

2nd G1 Florida Derby, 9 furlongs
2nd G2 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs (20)
G3 Holy Bull, 8.5 furlongs (10)
3rd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (2)
2nd G1 Champagne Stakes, 8 furlongs (4)
Funny Cide Stakes, 6.5 furlongs

7. International Star (Fusaichi Pegasus by Mr. Prospector - Parlez by French Deputy) (171)
Trainer: MIchael Maker
Next Race: G1 Kentucky Derby, 10 furlongs
G2 Louisiana Derby, 9 furlongs
G2 Risen Star, 8.5 furlongs (50)
G3 Lecomte, 8 furlongs (10)
4th G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs (1)
9th Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf, 8 furlongs
G3 Grey Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
2nd G2 With Anticipation Stakes, 8 furlongs
Rockville Centre, 6 furlongs

FuPeg's most promising son since Premier Pegasus. Unless El Kabeir wins the Wood, this is the points leader on Derby day.

8. Bold Conquest (Curlin by Smart Strike – One For Jim by Distorted Humor) 17
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Next Race: G1 Arkansas Derby, 9 furlongs
3rd G2 Rebel Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
G3 Southwest Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (1)
3rd G1 Breeders Cup Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (2)
G3 Iroquois Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)

Is he a Derby horse. Certainly, one of the most promising horses in the field.

9. El Kabeir (Scat Daddy by Johannesberg - Great Venue by Unbridled Song) (95) 
Trainer: Todd Pletcher

3rd G1 Wood Memorial, 9 furlongs
G2 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (50)
2nd G3 Withers Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)
G3 Jerome Handicap, 8 furlongs (10)
G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs (10)
2nd G3 Nashua Stakes, 8 furlongs
4th G1 Champagne Stakes, 1 mile  (1)

Was El Kabeir supposed to come from so far back by design, or not? I do not know. He closed well, but seemed to be left with too much to do.

10. Madefromlucky (Lookin At Lucky by Smart Strike - Home From Oz by Pulpit) 20
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G1 Arkansas Derby, 9 furlongs

2nd G2 Rebel Stakes, 8.5 furlongs

I expect to see him move forward here. Who is getting 2nd place money here - Far Right, Bold Conquest, the Truth or Else, or him? Good field. 4 spots, and these 4 horses all need points to get into the Derby.

11. Firing Line (Line of David by Lionheart - Sister Girl Blues by Hold For Gold) 58
Trainer: Simon Callaghan
Next Race: G1 Kentucky Derby, 10 furlongs
G2 Sunland Derby, 9 furlongs (50)
2nd G2 Robert Lewis Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)
2nd G1 Cash Call Futurity, 8.5 furlongs(4)

Will the long lay off make him rusty for the Derby or will he be like Animal Kingdom? We'll see.

12. Ocho Ocho Ocho (Street Sense by Street Cry – Winner by South African Triple Crown winner Horse Chestnut) 30
Trainer: James Cassidy
3rd G1 Bluegrass Stakes, 9 furlongs
7th G2 San Felipe, 8.5 furlongs
G2 Delta Jackpot, 8.5 furlongs
G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint, 6.5 furlongs (10)

He looked much better than  in the San Felipe. The question is whether he has reached the top of his talent, or he can still move forward. I thought I read from the connections that there are no long term plans for him which suggests to me that the Kentucky Derby is not an option, but who knows.

Honorable Mentions

Materiality (Afleet Alex by Northern Afleet - Wildwood Flower by Langfuhr) 100
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G1 Kentucky Derby, 10 furlongs
G1 Florida Derby, 9 furlongs

Apollo's curse has me. I do not think he has the foundation to win. Is he a competitor? Definitely. I think he is this year's Bodemeister.If he enters the Kentucky Derby, he'll do well in Triple Crown races, but he will not win. If saved for the Preakness Stakes, it could be a different story, but his connections smell roses.

Bolo (Temple City by Dynaformer - Aspen Mountain by Chief Seattle by Seattle Slew) 30
Trainer: Carla Gaines
Next Race: G1 Santa Anita Derby, 9 furlongs
3rd G2 San Felipe Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
Eddie Logan Stakes, 1 mile

Another 3rd? We'll see if the connections have Derby fever.

Classy Class (Discreetly Mine by Mineshaft –Collegiate by Saarland) 13
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin

5th G1 Bluegrass Stakes, 9 furlongs
3rd G3 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
3rd G3 Withers Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (2)
4th G2 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs (1)

Can he move forward enough his next outing to make it into the Derby field?A 3rd place finish would likely do it.

Itsaknockout (Lemon Drop Kid by Kingmambo - Stormy B by Cherokee Run (60)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher

4th G1 Florida Derby, 9 furlongs (10)
1st by DQ Fountain of Youth Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (50)

Love his pedigree. He has the points. He just needs to move forward. His last race I did not think was too impressive.

I thought he was exhausted in the Fountain of Youth which led to his interference with Upstart that was dismissed.

Perhaps these tough Florida efforts will help condition him for the Kentucky Derby. The two races in Florida did not appear to hurt Frosted.

Frosted moved up a lot imo with his win on Saturday. I thought he was the most impressive of the 3 winners Sat.

I did too, but I do not know whether he has the foundation that Dortmund has built in his 3 Derby preps.

He definitely has to step up.

I wonder about the California horses now. Is Dortmund that good, or are Prospect Park, Bolo, and Ocho Ocho Ocho suspect? I know Ocho was in the Bluegrass Stakes and did better, but the San Felipe it really seemed like Bolo and Prospect Park were going to move forward this race and they did not.

Bolo I like, but Prospect Park I always thought was a long shot. 

I know we still have the Arkansas Derby, but who is your Commanding Curve this year?

Quote from: peeptoad on April 06, 2015, 08:40:25 AM
Frosted moved up a lot imo with his win on Saturday. I thought he was the most impressive of the 3 winners Sat.

I second that.

I thought Dortmund was the most impressive. He did everything so easy and won by a good
4. I like grey's but Frosted doesn't do it for me and I'm not a big fan of Rosario either.
He is one less horse I have to worry about and if he beats me, he beats me  :chickendance:

I wasn't a fan of Frosted before the Wood,but I loved him in that race vs the rest.
He won it like a good horse
But I rate Upstart and Dormud higher than him!
One horse that I think has no shot in the Derby is American Pharoah. And he tops a lot of Derby lists!!

Why would you think american Pharaoh doesn't have a chance?

He is not as good as Dortmund or Upstart
And on Saturday he will lose to Madefromlucky
That is only my opinion as a horsplayer

That's interesting that you think American Pharoah does not compare to Dortmund.

I will agree that conditioning wise, Dortmund is far ahead of American Pharoah because he has been racing 5 times since November, whereas AP has one race in since his September race in the Frontrunner.

AP's next race back will tell us a lot. If you are right and Made From Lucky beats him, I will tend to agree with you.

Dortmund is an enigma. I am considering him as a possible toss because I have never seen a horse just keep getting better and better. Of course, Chrome did a similar progression last year, though his BSF did drop a point with the San Felipe and the Santa Anita Derby, but that's not much of a drop. I like Dortmund a lot, but my understanding is that anyone who sees both horses every day believes that American Pharoah is much more talented than he is. We'll see. There is no doubt that American Pharoah is fighting an uphill battle to be fit for the Derby with his first start coming in mid-March.

However, just as I am willing to reconsider AP if Made From Lucky bests him in the Arkansas Derby, I hope that you will be willing to reevaluate him if he performs well in the race.

There are 3 horses that have run 3 triple digit BSFs contending for the Derby. Dortmund. Upstart. And American Pharoah (though two were as a freshman). Pharoah could make it 4 Saturday. We'll see. Everyone enjoy. 

Quote from: Raven on April 08, 2015, 06:53:22 PM
He is not as good as Dortmund or Upstart
And on Saturday he will lose to Madefromlucky
That is only my opinion as a horsplayer

Whom do you think Baffert prefers between his top two?

Quote from: curtis on April 09, 2015, 11:17:45 AM
Whom do you think Baffert prefers between his top two?

I have no idea!
I like Dortmund!
A.P hasn't shown me that much.So far!  He wins his races very easyly but his figures don't do enything for me!
Even if he wins Saturday,unless he improves by at least 3-4 leinghts, I'm not using him on the top three spots!!

BTW,I know you're a SoCal guy and you might be an insider,I'll take your word that A P is thought to be the best of the two,but I as a horseplayer disagree!
Peace!!!



Spiro

Quote from: Raven on April 09, 2015, 11:39:18 AM
I have no idea!
I like Dortmund!
A.P hasn't shown me that much.So far!  He wins his races very easyly but his figures don't do enything for me!
Even if he wins Saturday,unless he improves by at least 3-4 leinghts, I'm not using him on the top three spots!!

BTW,I know you're a SoCal guy and you might be an insider,I'll take your word that A P is thought to be the best of the two,but I as a horseplayer disagree!
Peace!!!


Spiro

I think there are two ways to look at it.  American Pharoah has the most brilliance or turn of foot which is something of which Baffert is highly enamored.  Dortmund to me, has the look of a turf horse that could probably go up to 12f and because of his talent he is beating up on a fairly ordinary group--except for Firing Line, whom I suspect a mile hits right between the eyes.  If you feel inclined to want to witness a horse have a chance to win the TC, then American Pharoah is not the horse you want to see win the Derby because I don't think there is any way he holds up to three races like that in 5 weeks.  I think Dortmund could, but his style may have to change on Derby Day.  If he runs the way he has been running he won't, in my opinion, be on or just off the lead but a ways off of it.  He's so big that I doubt that Martin will want to get his momentum stopped so he'll likely be wide.  If he can be placed with a shot as they turn for home--and by with a shot I mean close after having run sensible fractions--watch out because he knows how to use his size to intimidate the others.

American Pharoah, can use his speed to get out of a tight spot, if needed, so he's more agile and thus he's more the prototypical Baffert Derby type.  Also he is running at the end of his races.  However the question is in energy distribution throughout the race, e.g. does he need the lead?  It's been so long now since Baffert won a Derby that I think that is his goal and he realizes winning the whole thing--having come so close before--is pretty much a crapshoot.  I'm sure he'll be thrilled if he gets the Derby with either horse-or even with One Lucky Dane--but if he really wants to win the whole thing, he'll probably wish he won the Derby with Dortmund.

One Lucky Dane.   Like!!!!

I'm humbled!

LOL.

Me too. I thought Madefromlucky would be a strong 2nd.

AP was the class of the race. The question is whether or not he is the class of his generation.

I know you like Dortmund and curtis may be right about how the Derby sets up.

I understand his concern regarding American Pharoah's durability for a Triple Crown run, but I still believe he is the best chance for that to happen.

I think Dortmund and AP ar both suspect at 12 furlongs just as they are suspect at 10. Dortmund's sire won the Derby against a weak field. Pioneer of the Nile was 2nd against a weak field since people give Mine The Bird little respect despite his strong finish's in the Preakness and Belmont Stakes. I do not think Dortmund will like Pimlico at all.

But we have to get through the Derby first. I expect both horses to be well off the pace in the Derby. 

Quote from: Man o Taz on April 13, 2015, 06:03:18 AM
LOL.

Me too. I thought Madefromlucky would be a strong 2nd.

AP was the class of the race. The question is whether or not he is the class of his generation.

I know you like Dortmund and curtis may be right about how the Derby sets up.

I understand his concern regarding American Pharoah's durability for a Triple Crown run, but I still believe he is the best chance for that to happen.

I think Dortmund and AP ar both suspect at 12 furlongs just as they are suspect at 10. Dortmund's sire won the Derby against a weak field. Pioneer of the Nile was 2nd against a weak field since people give Mine The Bird little respect despite his strong finish's in the Preakness and Belmont Stakes. I do not think Dortmund will like Pimlico at all.

But we have to get through the Derby first. I expect both horses to be well off the pace in the Derby.

I'm curious as to your reason for this opinion?  His sire won in dominating fashion there, his stable predecessor--who was at least as big as he is--won just as impressively there in 2001.  Dortmund won a Gr1 at Los Alamitos which has bullring turns, tighter than probably any he'll ever encounter.  He runs forwardly placed--something I believe is overblown in terms of success at Pimlico, but shouldn't be to his detriment.  Did I miss something about an allergy to crab?  Why do you think Pimlico will be a problem?

1. American Pharoah (Pioneer of the Nile by Empire Maker – Littleprincessemama by Yankee Gentleman by Storm Cat) 60

Like Dortmund's Santa Anita Derby, not much to see here. AP put the field away. Some have balked at the time as not being as fast as the Oaklawn Handicap, but Haskin dispensed with this critique noting that AP carried six more pounds than Race Day who was in an all out drive, and that AP might have won by 15 if his jockey had not wrapped him up before the wire. His 4th triple digit BSF.

2. Dortmund (Big Brown by Boundary – Our Josephina by Tale Of The Cat) 170
Trainer: Bob Baffert

What's not to like about this horse. He just keeps on winning. I like his will to win. You cannot teach that.

3.  Carpe Diem (Giants Causeway by Storm Cat – Rebridled Dreams – Unbridled Song) 164
Trainer: Todd Pletcher

I would love to rank him higher, but the fact that he has not run faster is worrying. He is one classy horse who, like American Pharoah, does everything so easily.

4. Mubtaahij (Dubawi by Dubai Millenium by Seeking The Gold - Pennegale by Pennekamp) 100

Can he do it? I really do not know. I may drop him down worrying about the competition. I usually rank the UAE Derby winner highly in my Derby Dozen given that distance is a key issue. There is no doubt he did not face as good a field in Dubai as in some of the other American prep races, but he looked very impressive winning. 

5. Frosted (Tapit by Pulpit – Fast Cookie by Deputy Minisiter) 113
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin

Since it does not seem like Maftool will be making the trip, this is Godolphin's sole entry.

This son of Tapit comes into the race well. Tapit son won the Belmont Stakes last year. Will it be the Derby this year?

6. International Star (Fusaichi Pegasus by Mr. Prospector - Parlez by French Deputy) (171)
Trainer: Michael Maker

One of the few closers he just finds the wire. He could be this year's winner if the race falls apart.

7. El Kabeir (Scat Daddy by Johannesberg - Great Venue by Unbridled Song) (95) 
Trainer: Todd Pletcher

What to do with El Kabeir? Who is going to ride him? What ride would be best for him? If Borel rides him we know its going to be a go to the lead type of a Derby which I think would give him no chance to win with all the potential speed in the race. I think Lopez would provide a more patient ride. I know people think Lopez should be taken off because of the Wood performance. We'll see.

8. Upstart (Flatter by A.P. Indy - by Touch Gold 76
Trainer: Richard Violette

Missing the work is a big issue. He is well conditioned dealing with the Gulfstream Park track, but this is not the time you want a problem to crop up. Hopefully he can get back on track.

9. Far Right (Notional by In Excess - Zindi by Vindication by Seattle Slew)  62
Trainer: Ronald Moquett

If the performance in the Arkansas Derby winner was indeed by the Derby favorite, 2nd place should be worth something even if its 8 lengths removed from the winner.

10. Firing Line (Line of David by Lionheart - Sister Girl Blues by Hold For Gold) 58
Trainer: Simon Callaghan

Will the long lay off make him rusty for the Derby or will he be like Animal Kingdom? We'll see.

11. Madefromlucky (Lookin At Lucky by Smart Strike - Home From Oz by Pulpit) 20
Trainer: Todd Pletcher

12. Itsaknockout (Lemon Drop Kid by Kingmambo - Stormy B by Cherokee Run (60)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher

Hoping his Florida Derby was a fluke performance. Like his breeding.

Quote from: curtis on April 14, 2015, 12:24:30 PM
I'm curious as to your reason for this opinion?  His sire won in dominating fashion there, his stable predecessor--who was at least as big as he is--won just as impressively there in 2001.  Dortmund won a Gr1 at Los Alamitos which has bullring turns, tighter than probably any he'll ever encounter.  He runs forwardly placed--something I believe is overblown in terms of success at Pimlico, but shouldn't be to his detriment.  Did I miss something about an allergy to crab?  Why do you think Pimlico will be a problem?

I just think the turns will impact him being such a big horse. I know he is very athletic and light on his feet for such a big horse, but maneuverability is important and can make the difference.

Its one thing entering a race where the competition is one or two quality horses and having to maneuver like at Los Alamitos, and another taking on better quality horses in a deeper field with tight turns.

Just my opinion.

My hope though is that I do not see him at Pimlico, but rather Belmont since I want American Pharoah to win the Derby and if he does, I am hoping Dortmund skips the Preakness for the Belmont Stakes. ;-)

We shall see.

Haskn's latest

http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/kentucky-derby-dozen/archive/2015/04/14/derby-dozen-april-14-2015-presented-by-shadwell-farm.aspx

Well, with One Lucky Dane's defection all 12 of mine could at least make the gate.

The irony is that I had OLD as my 13th horse.

From what I have read, Pimlico's not as tight as is so often said. There really is not much difference between CD and Pimlico.

I have sat at the Clubhouse Turn since 2006 at Pimlico and I have sat at the Clubhouse Turn at Churchill Downs for the Breeders Cup and there is a heck of a big difference just visually speaking between the two. The Preakness turns seem much narrower. A big horse, no matter how fleet footed I think could have a problem with navigating such turns with a competitive field. Its just my opinion.

Here is some good for thought:

Churchill Downs

One mile oval with a one mile chute
Homestretch: 80 feet wide
Backstretch: 80 feet wide
4% banking on turns
Distance from six-furlong start to first turn: 1,401 feet
Distance from seven-furlong start to first turn: 2,085 feet
Distance from 1 mile start to first turn: 2,745 feet
Distance from 11⁄16 mile start to first turn: 485 feet
Distance from 11⁄8 mile start to first turn: 815 feet
Distance from 11⁄4 mile start to first turn: 1,463 feet
Distance from 13⁄4 mile start to first turn: 1,401 fee
Distance from final turn to finish line: 1,235 feet

Pimlico
Track Surface
Dirt:

1 mile loam oval; Six-furlong and 1 1/4 mile chutes
Length of stretch from last turn to finish line = 1,152 feet
Track = 70 feet wide.

So you can see the Pimlico track has 10 feet less space which accounts for its reputation for having tighter turns. It also has a shorter stretch by 83 feet.

I know folks at DRF have written articles about the track not being tight turned showing the dimensions of the ovals as being the same, but that is not where the tightness comes in. The tightness comes in in trying to race around those turns with 10 feet less width to the outer rail. At Pimlico the outer rail is 14% closer than it is at Churchill Downs. The stretch as noted is also 83 feet shorter. Thus, a horse rounding the final turn has 10 less feet to maneuver in width wise and 83 feet less of a distance to do it in to win the race if it is closing. It is a challenge. For a big horse like Dortmund navigating in a tight field I believe it could adversely impact him.

Here is an excerpt from the Baltimore Sun article...
http://articles.baltimoresun.com/2002-05-18/sports/0205180008_1_pimlico-preakness-kentucky-derby

This myth of the Preakness being a race for speedsters apparently originated in 1957 after Bold Ruler, a speed horse who later sired Secretariat, finished fourth in the Kentucky Derby. According to Chick Lang, Bold Ruler's jockey, Eddie Arcaro, said after the Derby that his horse would perform better "when we get to Pimlico with those tight turns."

Lang worked at Pimlico from 1959 to 1987, serving as general manager for 21 years and earning the nickname "Mr. Preakness." He became close friends with Arcaro, who captured six Preaknesses, more than any other jockey.

"Like with E.F. Hutton, when Eddie Arcaro spoke, everybody listened," Lang says. "And you know, people are still saying it. Once they get that set in their mind you're not going to change them."

Lang says that if Arcaro, who died in 1997, told him once he told him a dozen times: "Chick, get people to stop saying that. I never should have used the word `tighter.' What I meant was `narrower.' The turns at Pimlico are narrower than they are at Churchill Downs."

Quote from: Man o Taz on April 29, 2015, 11:28:29 AM
I have sat at the Clubhouse Turn since 2006 at Pimlico and I have sat at the Clubhouse Turn at Churchill Downs for the Breeders Cup and there is a heck of a big difference just visually speaking between the two. The Preakness turns seem much narrower. A big horse, no matter how fleet footed I think could have a problem with navigating such turns with a competitive field. Its just my opinion.

Here is some good for thought:

Churchill Downs

One mile oval with a one mile chute
Homestretch: 80 feet wide
Backstretch: 80 feet wide
4% banking on turns
Distance from six-furlong start to first turn: 1,401 feet
Distance from seven-furlong start to first turn: 2,085 feet
Distance from 1 mile start to first turn: 2,745 feet
Distance from 11⁄16 mile start to first turn: 485 feet
Distance from 11⁄8 mile start to first turn: 815 feet
Distance from 11⁄4 mile start to first turn: 1,463 feet
Distance from 13⁄4 mile start to first turn: 1,401 fee
Distance from final turn to finish line: 1,235 feet

Pimlico
Track Surface
Dirt:

1 mile loam oval; Six-furlong and 1 1/4 mile chutes
Length of stretch from last turn to finish line = 1,152 feet
Track = 70 feet wide.

So you can see the Pimlico track has 10 feet less space which accounts for its reputation for having tighter turns. It also has a shorter stretch by 83 feet.

I know folks at DRF have written articles about the track not being tight turned showing the dimensions of the ovals as being the same, but that is not where the tightness comes in. The tightness comes in in trying to race around those turns with 10 feet less width to the outer rail. At Pimlico the outer rail is 14% closer than it is at Churchill Downs. The stretch as noted is also 83 feet shorter. Thus, a horse rounding the final turn has 10 less feet to maneuver in width wise and 83 feet less of a distance to do it in to win the race if it is closing. It is a challenge. For a big horse like Dortmund navigating in a tight field I believe it could adversely impact him.

Here is an excerpt from the Baltimore Sun article...
http://articles.baltimoresun.com/2002-05-18/sports/0205180008_1_pimlico-preakness-kentucky-derby

This myth of the Preakness being a race for speedsters apparently originated in 1957 after Bold Ruler, a speed horse who later sired Secretariat, finished fourth in the Kentucky Derby. According to Chick Lang, Bold Ruler's jockey, Eddie Arcaro, said after the Derby that his horse would perform better "when we get to Pimlico with those tight turns."

Lang worked at Pimlico from 1959 to 1987, serving as general manager for 21 years and earning the nickname "Mr. Preakness." He became close friends with Arcaro, who captured six Preaknesses, more than any other jockey.

"Like with E.F. Hutton, when Eddie Arcaro spoke, everybody listened," Lang says. "And you know, people are still saying it. Once they get that set in their mind you're not going to change them."

Lang says that if Arcaro, who died in 1997, told him once he told him a dozen times: "Chick, get people to stop saying that. I never should have used the word `tighter.' What I meant was `narrower.' The turns at Pimlico are narrower than they are at Churchill Downs."

EXCELLENT - and spot on!

....Anticipating your updated list !

Sorry - out on business no chance to post Dusty. :-(

Quote from: The Tin Man on February 24, 2015, 04:36:08 PM
Ocho at #1 eh, Taz? Very cool.

I still have Pharoah at #1, if he makes it ... but if not, Ocho would likely be my #1 if he impresses once again in The San Felipe.

Sure would like to see Punctuate run another race at some point in his life. His debut was very impressive.

My eye is on Power Jam now too. His debut was quite impressive.

Any word on Indianapolis?