Kentucky Derby News and Notes
April 15, 2009 by Jarrod Horak
Filed under Horses, Kentucky Derby, Triple Crown
Pioneerof The Nile uncorked a strong 4f bullet in :46.62 at Santa Anita on April 15th. The Bob Baffert runner is an enigma for most handicappers as he continues to win on synthetic without earning flashy figs.
He has been flattered by his vanquished foes, including I Want Revenge and Papa Clem. I have always liked the son of Empire Maker and consider him a viable Derby threat. Note that his regular pilot Garrett Gomez also rides Dunkirk, and it will be interesting to see which colt he selects…stay tuned!
In other Derby news, Kentucky Challenge winner Mafaaz has been turned over to fine conditioner Kiaran McLaughlin, and a decision on his Derby desires should be coming soon.
Julian Leparoux has been named to ride Blue Grass winner General Quarters in the Kentucky Derby. Eibar Coa will remain with Illinois Derby hero Musket Man.
A full field of 12 will line up in the $300k Lexington (G2) at Keeneland on Saturday, and BC Juvenile runner-up Square Eddie is the marquee name. The Doug O’Neill runner has not been seen since January and is worth trying to beat at underlaid odds. I will analyze the Derby prep later this week.
Image: Newscom
