Giant Finish crashes Fear the Kitten’s party// Carving not likely to be AE// Albarado to ride Golden Soul// No blow out for Itsmyluckyday

Summary:

Hopefully the connections of Fear the Kitten kept the receipts for their Derby hats as they may be of no use Saturday. In a near-last minute decision, owner Andy Cohen decided to throw Giant Finish, 3rd last time out in the Spiral (G3) at Turfway, into the Kentucky Derby mix. Giant Finish’s 10 points trump Fear the Kitten’s 6, which force the latter to enter as an also-eligible and hope for a defection before Friday. It appeared a second also-eligible was possible with the connections of Carving (2 points) showing interest to enter their colt during Wednesday’s scheduled draw. However, trainer Mike Puhich didn’t seem keen on the idea of waiting for two to drop out// It was also announced late Tuesday that Dallas Stewart has chosen Robby Albarado as the rider for Golden Soul. The team will be among the longest shots in the race, but if they happen to pull off a miracle get ready for the onslaught of stories on Albarado’s fairly recent transgressions// Somehow news that Ryan Moore was named to ride Lines of Battle was labeled “breaking” today but we actually knew that Friday. Lines of Battle arrived on the Churchill grounds early Wednesday morning// Eddie Plesa confirmed that Itsmyluckyday will not have a ‘blow out’ or short breeze between now and the Derby. Itsmyluckyday’s last work was Thursday and his overall time was a very slow 4-furlongs in 53 seconds flat// No serious workouts took place at Churchill Tuesday, but several people noted Falling Sky’s strong gallop. It is safe to assume he will be fairly aggressive in the early stages of the Derby. For gallop videos and interviews see the links below// Andrew Beyer theorizes that Todd Pletcher’s 1-for-31 record in the Kentucky Derby can be attributed to his training methods producing horses that perform better in races well spaced apart as opposed to the compact prep and Triple Crown schedules// Features on Kevin Krigger, Vyjack, Kelly Breen, Golden Soul, Joel Rosario, Orb, and much more below…

Updated Kentucky Derby Point Standings

Updated Contender Page- featuring PPs, pedigree info, race replays and more

Articles:

Giant Finish joins field on eve of draw (DRF)

Giant Finish owner: ‘You only live once’ (Bloodhorse)

Derby update 4/30 (Churchill Downs)

Itsmyluckyday gallops strongly [Clocker Report video] (DRF)

Falling Sky gallops briskly (DRF)

Falling Sky looks to set the pace in Kentucky Derby (Washington Post)

Pletcher horses visit the track; Orb walks shedrow day after workout (Brisnet)

Pitino to watch Goldencents train; Plesa ready to wear ‘gameface’ (Brisnet)

Kentucky Derby news minute 4/30 (Bloodhorse)

Churchill Downs, TwinSpires.com raise guaranteed pick 6 pools for Oaks and Derby (Brisnet)

Ramseys hoping for Charming Derby result (Bloodhorse)

The Kentucky Derby through the eyes of Molly Jo Rosen (Insider Louisville)

Inspired Gary Stevens chasing Kentucky Derby like it’s 1999 (WDRB-TV)

Riding high, Rosario readies for Derby on Orb (Bloodhorse)

Itsmyluckyday thrives in cooler climate at Churchill Downs (DRF)

Haskin’s Derby Report: Oh, happy day (Bloodhorse Blog)

Golden Soul gets chance to prove he belongs (DRF)

Kevin Krigger “embracing the opportunity” to make Derby history (Sports Illustrated)

Krigger’s journey hits peak with Goldencents (DRF)

Tale of how Pitino got small slice of Goldencents (DRF)

Kelly Breen, an Old Bridge native, changes leads in search of a dream (NJ.com)
Kentucky Derby full of intrigue with Pletcher’s pack, O’Neill’s return (The Baltimore Sun)

Female families and the Kentucky Derby (Horse Racing Nation)

Rodriguez stays focused on Vyjack amid controversy (DRF)

Vyjack would love to follow Funny Cide’s path (Bloodhorse)

Derby Dreams: Mylute (Paulick Report)

Victory starts on the backside (ESPN)

The Kentucky Derby: handicapping the field (Up The Track)

Why does Midas touch desert Pletcher on Kentucky Derby day? (DRF)

Stevens trades in NBC mike to ride in Kentucky Derby (USA Today)

Pedigree: Bringing the battle to Kentucky (Bloodhorse)

Performance trends at the Kentucky Derby [video] (NY Times)

Breaking down every horse and jockey in the race (Bleacher Report)

No lack of buzz on Churchill Downs backside (Business First Louisville)

Videos:

Verrazano gallops 4/30 [video] (Churchill Downs)

Normandy Invasion gallops 4/30 [video] (Churchill Downs)

Mylute gallops 4/30 [video] (Churchill Downs)

Charming Kitten gallops 4/30 [video] (Churchill Downs)

Frac Daddy gallops 4/30 [video] (Churchill Downs)

Vyjack gallops 4/30 [video] (Churchill Downs)

Chad Brown on Normandy Invasion [video] (Bloodhorse)

Alan Garcia on Fear the Kitten [video] (Bloodhorse)

Ken McPeek on Frac Daddy and Java’s War [video] (Bloodhorse)

Shug McGaughey on Orb [video] (Bloodhorse)

Eddie Plesa on Itsmyluckyday [video] (Bloodhorse)

Krigger talks about Goldencents in Kentucky Derby [video] (Courier Journal)

Rankings:

Haskin’s Derby Dozen 4/30 (Bloodhorse Blog)

Quotes and Tweets:

"Just got a text from Dallas Stewart naming Robby Albarado to ride Golden Soul in the Ky Derby"- Jay Privman via Twitter

“Trainer Eddie Plesa Jr. confirms Itsmyluckyday will not have a blow out before Derby. ‘No upside but downside if he went too fast’ ” - Mike Welsch via Twitter

10 contenders put in final works// Breeze videos and analysis// Goldencents arrives// more...

Articles:

Kentucky Derby workouts 4/27 [Clocker Report video] (DRF)

Derby update 4/27 (Churchill Downs)

Derby backside buzz with Jill Byrne 4/27 [video] (Churchill Downs)

Pletcher sends out all five prospects (DRF)

Verrazano workout video 4/27 (Churchill Downs)

Palace Malice and Overanalyze workout video (Churchill Downs)

Haskin’s Derby Report: Pletcher on parade (Bloodhorse Blog)

Kentucky Derby news minute 4/27 (Bloodhorse)

Normandy Invasion posts smooth final move (Bloodhorse)

Chad Brown on Normandy Invasion’s work [video] (Bloodhorse)

Mylute workout video 4/27 (Churchill Downs)

Mylute’s steady work no problem for Amoss (Bloodhorse)

Bravo flies in to work improving Black Onyx (Bloodhorse)

Solid works and no worries for McPeek duo (Bloodhorse)

Ken McPeek on Frac Daddy and Java’s War works [video] (Bloodhorse)

Bath time for Frac Daddy and Java’s War [video] (Bloodhorse)

Black Onyx workout video 4/27 (Churchill Downs)

Kelly Breen and Black Onyx [video] (Bloodhorse)

Joe Bravo and Black Onyx work [video] (Bloodhorse)

Team O’Neill back for another (Bloodhorse)

139th Kentucky Derby is Pletcher-dominated affair (AP)

A horse names after controversial oil drilling method… (Business Insider)

Works:

Overanalyze- CD- 4F- 47:00- B- 1/70 (Splits: 12, 23.4, 35.2 out 59.6 & 1:13.4)

Palace Malice- CD- 4F- 47:20- B- 2/70 (Splits: 12, 23.6, 35.4 out 59.8)

Revolutionary- CD- 4F- 48:20- B- 6/70 (Splits: 24.80, 36.40, 48.20 out +1 1:00.60, 1:14.80)

Charming Kitten- CD- 4F- 48:40- B- 8/70 (Splits: 24.80, 36.40, 48.40)

Black Onyx- CD- 4F- 48:60- B- 12/70 (Splits 12.20, 24.20, 36.20. Out 5F 1:02.40)

Mylute- CD- 4F- 50:60- B- 59/70 (Splits 12.60, 25 & 37.60. Out 5F in 1:05.80)

Normandy Invasion- CD- 5F- 59:00- B- 2/52 (Splits 11.80, 23.20, 34.80 & 46.60. Out 6F 1:11.80

Verrazano- CD- 5F- 59:40- B- 6/52 (Splits: 11.80, 23.20, 35, 47. Out 1:13

Java's War- CD- 5F- 1.02:00- B- 32/52 (Splits: 12.40,  24.80 & 37, out in 1:16.60)

Frac Daddy- CD- 5F- 1.02:00- B- 32/52 (Splits: 12.40,  24.80 & 37, out in 1:14.80)

Falling Sky, Vyjack, Golden Soul breeze 5 panels// Ryan Moore to ride Lines of Battle// Training schedules altered// Standings still a mystery

Summary:

None of the three key workouts Friday impressed DRF clocker Mike Welsch. Both Vyjack and Falling Sky needed considerable encouragement late, while Golden Soul’s move was labeled simply “average”. Their times and splits can be found below. Orb had a stiff gallop along with gate schooling and “continued to impress” while Govenor Charlie had a troubling stride and difficulty changing leads. The McPeek pair of Frac Daddy and Java’s War meanwhile continue to thrive according to Welsch. His full report linked below// There’s been little news from across the pond on UAE Derby (G2) winner Lines of Battle. We finally know that Ryan Moore will retain the mount, but an arrival date and training developments have not been given// With the high probability of showers Saturday afternoon and evening, Todd Pletcher decided to move scheduled workouts for a majority of his likely Derby entrants from Sunday to Saturday. Falling Sky’s Friday work was also the result of trying to beat potential muddy conditions// Bob Baffert postponed his arrival to Kentucky a few days, so we will not hear the Derby status of Govenor Charlie, Code West, and Power Broker until at least Saturday. The latter two colts were not even mentioned by Jay Privman in his latest update so their chances don’t look good. Meanwhile, Privman also writes Tiz a Minister’s likelihood of shipping to Kentucky for the Derby after his stakes try Saturday is slim, which is different from what we heard just days ago// more…

Articles:

Kentucky Derby workouts [with Clocker Report video] (DRF)

Vyjack heads Derby works with strong move (Bloodhorse)

Orb gets familiar with Churchill starting gate (DRF)

Special bridle keeps Vyjack under control (DRF)

Kentucky Derby training plans shuffled (DRF)

Joel talks about Orb [video] (Bloodhorse)

D. Wayne Lukas figures his colts can set their own pace (Courier Journal)

Java’s War was declared in the Blue Grass (Bloodhorse)

Upcoming Kentucky Derby full of Todd Pletcher’s horses (Sports Illustrated)

Trainer Todd Pletcher holding full house (Silicon Valley Mercury News)

Countdown to the Crown: Week 17- April 26 (DRF)

Haskin’s Derby report: The players up close (Bloodhorse)

Contenders: Orb, Verrazano, Goldencents, Java’s War [video] (Graded Stakes)

Kentucky Derby odds ignore Wood Memorial jinx for Verrazano (Bleacher Report)

Derby prom (Brisnet Blog)

Kentucky Derby-winning trainers share some special memories (DRF)

News shows to profile Napravnik, O’Neill (Bloodhorse)

Works:

Falling Sky- CD- 5F- 59:60- B- 1/32 (Splits 12.40, 23.80, 35.40, 47.20, 59.60 out 6F in 1:13 & 7F in 1:28)

Vyjack- CD- 5F- 1.00:40- B- 3/32 (Splits 12.20, 24.20, 36, 48. Out 1:14)

Golden Soul- CD- 5F- 1.00:80- B- 7/32 (Splits 12.20, 24.40, 36, 48. Out 1:14.40)

Upcoming Kentucky Derby Points Race

Derby Trial (G3)

Churchill Downs

1 Mile

PPs: Click here

Previews: Churchill Downs / Bloodhorse / DRF / Brisnet

Picks: Downey Profile / Bloodhorse THS / Equibase

Den’s Legacy, Super Ninety Nine out of Derby picture// Updated standings// Churchill activity from Frac, Java, Normandy// Derby Trial probables// more…

Summary:

Surprisingly, Bob Baffert did not allow the drama to build and wait until the last minute to announce his decision on Super Ninety Nine and Den’s Legacy. Tuesday, he told Churchill officials that both colts will not point to the Derby. All Baffert mysteries are not solved however, as we will have to wait a little while longer for his decision on Code West and Power Broker. That news should come later in the week when he’s on the Churchill grounds and looks over both horses, however even after that there will be lingering questions on the health of Govenor Charlie. The colt finally jogged around the Churchill track Tuesday- as opposed to just jogging (I erroneously reported yesterday he hadn’t yet made an appearance)- but Mike Welsch labeled his gallop just “average”// Welsch said Normandy Invasion was the “star of the show” before alluding to rumors the colt has lost weight since the Wood Memorial. Trainer Chad Brown didn’t seemed concerned and says, “I’m right where I want to be with him”// Frac Daddy continues to make a very good impression around the Churchill oval as does stablemate Java’s War// Vyjack was “sharp” but if you take note of trainer Rudy Rodriguez’s comments and the unconventional equipment they have to use, the colt is still a bit of a head case// Full reports and videos can be found below// As for upcoming official breeze announcements: Goldencents is scheduled for a 6-furlong breeze Thursday; Itsmyluckyday may or may not work Thursday; Java’s War and Frac Daddy will work Saturday; Palace Malice will work with blinkers and Mike Smith aboard Sunday// There are 8 or 9 probables for Saturday’s Derby Trial (G3), a race in which the winner receives 20 points towards the Kentucky Derby. Titletown Five is a definite starter, and his connections D. Wayne Lukas and Football Hall of Famer Paul Hornung have every intention of going to the Derby if they get the requisite points. Other probables include Demonic, Officer Alex, Forty Tales, Ruble, Treasury Bill, and Zee Bros// Speaking of D. Wayne Lukas, there is a nice feature on him from the Courier Journal linked below// more…

Updated Kentucky Derby Point Standings 4/23

Articles:

Super Ninety Nine, Den’s Legacy declared from Kentucky Derby (Churchill Downs)

Kentucky Derby update 4/23 (Churchill Downs)

Kentucky Derby workouts: Normandy Invasion has strong gallop [with Mike Welsch Clocker Report video] (DRF)

Frac Daddy gallop 4/23 [video] (Churchill Downs)

Java’s War gallop 4/23 [video] (Churchill Downs)

Trainer Rodriguez guides Vyjack at Churchill (Bloodhorse)

Derby backside buzz with Jill Byrne [video] (Churhcill Downs)

Kentucky Derby horses exercise Tuesday [video] (Courier Journal)

Todd Pletcher discusses his 5 Derby horses (Courier Journal)

Titletown Five among Derby Trial candidates (DRF)

D. Wayne Lukas still looking forward, not back (Courier Journal)

Mane character: Oxbow [with video] (Courier Journal)

Time is money when it comes to Kentucky Derby works (Insider Louisville)

Insider Louisville goes in search of the 2013 Kentucky Derby winner (Insider Louisville)

Shug McGaughey’s Derby Diary (ABR Live)

Bullet Train presents Derby Dreams: Frac Daddy (The Paulick Report)

Making the grade: Normandy Invasion (ABR Live)

Lightly raced 3-year-olds on Derby streak (The Saratogian)

Gary Stevens back at the Kentucky Derby (Idaho Statesmen)

Kentucky Derby jockey hopes to make history [with Krigger video interview] (KTTV)

Crucian Jockeys to tout V.I. at Kentucky Derby (St. Thomas Source)

Rankings:

Derby Top 10 (Left at the Gate)

Top 15 (NY Daily News)

Napravnik assigned to Mylute/ Prado likely on Charming Kitten/ Rodriguez cleared to train/ more…

Summary:

Rosie Napravnik, who fell short in the “contest” to ride Revolutionary by WinStar and Todd Pletcher, picked up a Derby mount nonetheless on Mylute. The Tom Amoss trainee will be a big price May 4th, but Napravnik is definitely pleased to be going to the big dance for the second consecutive year// Pletcher mentioned on Steve Byk’s radio show Tuesday that Edgar Prado is the likely rider for Charming Kitten, another probable Derby starter who will go off at long odds// Gary Stevens will retain the mount on Oxbow, despite a poor ride in the Arkansas Derby (G1). Trainer D. Wayne Lukas thinks Stevens learned a lot from the experience and will keep Oxbow more forwardly placed in the Derby// Trainer Rudy Rodriguez appeared in Lexington Tuesday for his hearing in front of the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission. He was approved for a training license despite recent medication violations, but his Derby contender Vyjack will be under video surveillance 24/7 while stabled at Churchill Downs// Word came Tuesday that the connections of Tiz A Minister, currently right on the cusp of qualifying for the Derby, are strongly considering pointing for the race. Tiz a Minister was 4th last time out in the Santa Anita Derby (G1) with no apparent excuse// Speaking of the Kentucky Derby leaderboard, there is some confusion over the last few spots. Several sources, including the latest official standings submitted by Churchill Downs, still have Super Ninety Nine and Code West at spots #18 and #21 respectively. However, Santa Anita has Bob Baffert quoted as stating “and then there was one”, which suggests Govenor Charlie is his lone entrant and Super Ninety Nine is out. Also, the official Kentucky Derby website has both Code West and Super Ninety Nine removed from the list. So, while most signs point to their absence, no official statements have been issued// According to Trakus data, Java’s War’s wide trip in the Blue Grass (G1) resulted in the colt traveling 52 additional feet compared to runner-up Palace Malice. That margin equates to a six-length victory if both would have traveled the same distance// For Saturday’s Lexington Stakes at Keeneland (G3) we’re hearing more about horses NOT pointing for the Kentucky Derby instead of trainers making last ditch efforts to get in. The filly Pure Fun is going against males just to get in a race before her main target of the Kentucky Oaks (G1). Examen’s trainer Tom Proctor essentially said he could care less about the Derby and instead will focus on the Swaps (G1) as a long-term goal. Todd Pletcher’s lone Lexington Stakes entrant Winning Cause will also likely skip the ‘Run for the Roses’ even with a good result Saturday. Other probables for the Lexington Stakes include Cerro, Hip Four Sixtynine, Johnny Handsome, Pick of the Litter, Title Contender, and Where’s Dominic// more…  

Articles:

Napravnik to ride Louisiana Derby runner-up Mylute in Kentucky Derby (Courier Journal Blog)

Stevens remains on Oxbow for KY Derby (Bloodhorse)

Vyjack will be watched closely at Churchill (Courier Journal)

Coolmore Lexington winner could move into Kentucky Derby contention (Keeneland)

Examen not using Lexington as Kentucky Derby prep (DRF)

Pure Fun to challenge males in Lexington (Bloodhorse)

Kentucky Derby Update April 16 [video] (Churchill Downs)

Kentucky Derby: Getting to the point (ESPN)

Kentucky Derby shaping up to be interesting race (GamingToday.com)
Predictions fly as major Kentucky Derby preps wrap up (Ocala.com)

Goldencents will not win the Kentucky Derby (Zipse at the Track)

Derby points: Moderate bump in prep runners (The Downey Profile)

The bullet train Derby platform 4/15 (Brisnet via YouTube)

Trakus: Java’s War very impressive in Blue Grass (ABR Blog)

Blue Grass/Arkansas Derby= Little Derby impact? (Horseracing Nation)

This week’s Road to the Kentucky Derby (Courier Journal Blog)

Events where public can meet Kentucky Derby horsemen (Courier Journal Blog)

Rankings:

Top 15 (NY Daily News)

Quotes and Tweets:

"Todd Pletcher tells ATR listeners that Edgar Prado the leading candidate to ride Charming Kitten for the Ramseys in Kentucky Derby"- Steve Byk via Twitter

“Paul Aguirre, the trainer of Tiz a Minister, said owner Stephen Young is still contemplating a Derby start” - Jay Privman via DRF

Weekend Review: Blue Grass & Arkansas Derby thoughts and figs// Arrivals, key works, defections// Code West goes for Wild Card// more...

Arkansas Derby (G1)

Winner (pts): Overanalyze (100)

2nd, 3rd, 4th (pts): Frac Daddy (40), Carve (20), Falling Sky (10)

Chart: Equibase

Replay: YouTube

Beyer/BRIS: 88/96

Recaps: Bloodhorse / DRF / Brisnet

CTD Analysis: Normandy Invasion’s strong runner-up finish in last week’s Wood Memorial (G1) went a long way to quiet all the Remsen (G2) bashers, but Overanalyze’s 4 1/4 length victory in the Arkansas Derby (G1) should all but silence them. The Remsen, a 1 1/8 mile race for two-year-olds in late November has failed to be a key race in recent Kentucky Derbies, and it looked as if the trend would continue with the continuous off-the-board performances of it’s top three finishers in the early part of the year. Now the Remsen looks to be responsible for two Derby starters, which is more than such storied juvenile races as the Champagne (G1), CashCall Futurity (G1), and Breeders’ Cup Juvenile (G1).

You will probably still get a good price on Overanalyze in the Kentucky Derby. The Beyer speed figure from the Arkansas Derby didn’t crack 90 (88), which puts the colt on the very low end of recent prep winners. If you don’t subscribe to Beyer, perhaps the BRIS figure of 96 gives you a little more comfort, not to mention the relative ease Overanalyze put away nine rivals after racing wide most of the way. The Oaklawn circuit has taken its share of lumps this Derby prep season and you have to be skeptical of what the future holds for most the Arkansas Derby (G1) entrants, but visually you can’t ask anything more from Overanalyze.

Runner-up Frac Daddy earned enough points to move onto Churchill Downs, but I wouldn’t label his performance promising seeing as he had the perfect inside stalking trip yet was still beaten in a slow race by over four lengths. It was not the most dissapointing display however, as that award goes to Oxbow who attempted a new off-the-pace running style that turned out to be a disaster. The colt clearly did not like watching horses in front of him- or the dirt in his face for that matter- and never got into the race. Nevertheless trainer D. Wayne Lukas will still point for the Kentucky Derby (G1) and likely plan for a more forward position in the early going.  

Blue Grass (G1)

Winner (pts): Java’s War (100)

2nd, 3rd, 4th (pts): Palace Malice (40), Charming Kitten (20), Rydilluc (10)

Chart: Equibase

Replay: YouTube

Beyer/BRIS: 89/96

Recaps: Bloodhorse / DRF / Brisnet

CTD Analysis: Almost getting left in the gate was no bother to jockey Julien Leparoux and Java’s War in the Blue Gras Stakes (G1) at Keeneland. Luckily, Java’s War is the closing type that likes to bide his time in the back before making a big burst down the stretch. He did just that Saturday after the 3/4 pole by picking off all foes in front of him one-by-one.   

What did we learn from Java’s War’s performance and the Blue Grass in general? Like recent years, probably not much. Keeneland’s Polytrack surface is kind to closers and can take its toll on the frontrunners by the time they get into the stretch. That fact was painfully evident as favored Rydilluc relinquished the lead to three horses, including the winner, in the late going. Moreover, a good or poor performance doesn’t necessarily translate to the same happening at Churchill Downs three weeks later. Mark Casse was rightfully disappointed with Uncaptured 10th place finish and is most likely skipping the Derby despite having the points. Many would argue the Blue Grass is proof Uncaptured has digressed from two to three, but there’s plenty of instances where horses run night and day differences between Keeneland and Churchill Downs. Plus, we know Uncaptured likes the Churchill surface based on his two graded stakes victories last Fall.

Back to the winner, Java’s War’s best race is still probably the runner-up finish to likely Kentucky Derby favorite Verrazano in the Tampa Bay Derby (G2) in March. That race was on dirt and also generated a career-best Beyer speed figure of 96. Still, even that performance is not enough to put him in the top five of Derby choices, however a deep closer can always surprise if the race falls apart from a hot pace. 

2nd place Palace Malice will move onto the Derby, but how serious can we take a horse that finished 7th (albeit a troubled trip) and 3rd in his last dirt outings against questionable company?

Charming Kitten, who made a nice wide late move, got the show and currently sits as the last one in the Derby. How much the son of Kitten’s Joy will enjoy the Churchill dirt and step up in company will be a point of contention for many.

Updated Kentucky Derby Point Standings

Weekend News Summary

The Churchill Downs backside is filling up with Kentucky Derby starters earlier than usual. Verrazano, Overanalyze, and Normandy Invasion were the latest arrivals Sunday// Vyjack has been hanging out in a hyperbaric chamber recently after suffering a lung infection and mucus buildup after the Wood Memorial (G1). Trainer Rudy Rodriguez was hoping Vyjack could fly into Louisville with the Sunday arrivals from New York, but first has to appear before the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission in order to get a license. The in-person requirement is due to Rodriguez having two recent medication violations in New York. Plans are still to have the Vyjack ready for the Derby// With a number of quick defection announcements Saturday and Sunday, several horses that were outside the top 20 in points are now gearing up for the longest and toughest race of their life. Charming Kitten makes the cut, which gives Todd Pletcher five starters. No word from Bob Baffert (surprise, surprise) on whether Super Ninety Nine, currently #18 in the standings, will make the trip. It is very likely Baffert will only saddle one horse, Sunland Derby (G3) winner Govenor Charlie, in the Kentucky Derby// Falling Sky is another within the top 20 whose connections may opt out of the Run for the Roses// Although there are still two Kentucky Derby point races to run, now is the time for workouts to play just as an important role in the news cycle. There were four key works over the weekend from Orb, Mylute, Black Onyx, and Will Take Charge. Reports and details below// On one hand, you have to give credit to WinStar Farms for trying to mix things up by starting a public poll on who should ride Revolutionary in the Kentucky Derby. On the other hand, you have to wonder what the jockeys and trainer Todd Pletcher think of possibly being the bad guy (or gal) who went against the people’s choice. I imagine they’ll get over it// The Coolmore Lexington (G3) Saturday represents a “Wild Card” race along the Kentucky Derby point schedule, and could have some serious implications. The winner gets 20 points, which is currently the exact cutoff number to make the Derby gate, although a tiebreaker based on non-restricted stakes earnings would have to take effect seeing as several horses have 20 points. Code West wouldn’t have to worry about a tiebreaker if he were to hit the board, having accrued 20 points already// more…

Articles:

Java’s War fine, but trainer ‘exhausted,’ following Blue Grass (Brisnet)

Overanalyze wastes no time getting to Churchill Downs (DRF)

Biggest winners of last Saturday’s action (Bleacher Report)

Biggest disappointments of last Saturday’s action (Bleacher Report)

Blue Grass: Finishers that improved their Kentucky Derby chances (Bleacher Report)

Blue Grass, Arkansas Derby notes (DRF Blog)

Mylute drill three-quarters in 1.12 1/5; Overanalyze arrives at Churchill (Brisnet)

Orb emerges from fog during sharp workout (DRF)

Vyjack’s trip to Churchill Downs delayed while Rodriguez applies for license (DRF)

Spiral winner Black Onyx back to work (Churchill Downs)

Will Take Charge works a mile at Oaklawn (DRF)

Louisiana Derby winner Revolutionary arrives at Churchill Downs (Brisnet)

Verrazano arrives at Churchill [video] (Courier Journal)

Verrazano will be favorite (Courier Journal)

Govenor Charlie could be Baffert’s lone Derby runner (Brisnet)

WinStar polling fans on Revolutionary’s rider for Kentucky Derby (DRF)

Derby points accomplish mission- as long as Illinois Derby winner doesn’t take Preakness (Courier Journal Blog)

Several trainers earn multiple shots at Derby title (Lexington Herald Leader)

Greater doping security planned for Kentucky Derby (NY Times)

Code West eyes Coolmore Lexington Stakes (DRF)

Rydullic to return to turf (In The Money)

Works:

Sunday

Orb- PAY- 4F- 48:00- B- 2/8

Mylute- CD- 6F- 1.12:20- B- 1/6

Saturday

Black Onyx- CD- 5F- 1.00:60- 3/26

Friday

Will Take Charge- OP- 1M- 1.40:80- B- 1/1

Rankings:

A Derby list (Pull The Pocket)

Derby Watch List (Star-Ledger)

Overanalyze opens up in Arkansas Derby// Java's War gets the points in Blue Grass

Arkansas Derby (G1)

Winner (pts): Overanalyze (100)

2nd, 3rd, 4th (pts): Frac Daddy (40), Carve (20), Falling Sky (10)

Chart: Equibase

Replay: YouTube

Recaps: Bloodhorse / DRF / Brisnet

Blue Grass (G1)

Winner (pts): Java’s War (100)

2nd, 3rd, 4th (pts): Palace Malice (40), Charming Kitten (20), Rydilluc (10)

Chart: Equibase

Replay: YouTube

Recaps: Bloodhorse / DRF / Brisnet

Updated Kentucky Derby Point Standings

Java’s War could be dangerous in Blue Grass, Dewey Square sitting out// Gomez gets Palace Malice mount// More Blue Grass and Arkansas Derby news// Updated futures// more…

Summary:

Dale Romans has been known to catch Derby fever as much as anyone, but has decided to take a conservative approach with Dewey Square. Instead of running in Saturday’s Blue Grass (G1), he will point for the Derby points deprived Illinois Derby (G3), with the Preakness (G1) the goal. Romans has been high on Dewey Square, but his 3-year-old season has been dissapointing with a 7th in the Holy Bull (G3) and 5th in the Palm Beach (G3). It seems like a wise, yet still ambitious decision// The Blue Grass looks to be a popular race, with as many as 18 horses vying for the 14 spots. Kenny McPeek believes Java’s War is sitting on a big effort, as the colt appears to relish the Polytrack. No one seems to mention Java’s War has already raced on the surface in last year’s Dixiana Breeders Futurity (G1), where he finished a troubled 3rd by 1 3/4 lengths. In other Blue Grass news, Garrett Gomez picked up the mount on Palace Malice. Gomez is searching for a Derby mount in the wake of recently injured Flashback. More Blue Grass notes and happenings can be found in the barn notes linked below// Shades of 1996 are developing with D. Wayne Lukas pointing multiple colts to the Kentucky Derby, and one of them with Gary Stevens possibly aboard. Oxbow is apparently doing well ahead of Saturday’s Arkansas Derby (G1) and Lukas hopes to get another Kentucky Derby entrant with Channel Isle in the Blue Grass. Lukas confirmed that Will Take Charge with bypass the Blue Grass and train up to the Derby saying “we have nothing to gain” by squeezing in another race. That means Will Take Charge will have a 7-week racing break between his win in the Rebel (G2) and the Kentucky Derby// Nice article from Jay Cronley at ESPN about the futility of strategizing your bets for the Kentucky Derby// A filly could grab some Derby points after all with the announcement by Kenny McPeek that Pure Fun may enter the Lexington Stakes (G3) at Keeneland. If she were to win, Pure Fun would only earn 20 points, which is likely not enough to the make the Derby starting gate// Updated Kentucky Derby future odds from Wynn Las Vegas linked below// more…

Articles:

Barn Notes: 3 more colts ready to enter Blue Grass if opportunity arises [full list of probables] (Keeneland)

Java’s War looks like legit Blue Grass contender (DRF)

Lukas barn loaded with talented 3-year-olds on Triple Crown trail (DRF)

Will Take Charge will train up to race (DRF)

Haskin: Give Verrazano a break (Bloodhorse Blog)

A whimsical Derby (ESPN)

Sticking with Normandy Invasion (ESPN)

Pure Fun may try males in Lexington (DRF)

Illinois Derby, Preakness for Dewey Square (Bloodhorse)

Futures

Wynn Las Vegas 4/8 (View From Vegas)

William Hill 4/8 (View From Vegas)

Wynn Odds for Triple Crown (Downey Profile)

Works:

Texas Bling- OP- 3F- 36:00- B- 2/2

Rankings:

Down and Derby Sweet 16 (Zipse at the Track)

Quotes and Tweets:

"Garrett Gomez, who rode now-injured Flashback in SA Derby, rides Palace Malice in Blue Grass Saturday, per Pletcher"- Jay Privman via Twitter

"Covello says Martin Garcia will ride Falling Sky for the first time in the Arkansas Derby"- Marc Doche via Twitter

“Pletcher: Louisiana Derby winner Revolutionary expected to arrive at Churchill on Friday”- J.J. Hysell via Twitter

Weekend Review: Recaps, thoughts & speed figs for Wood, Santa Anita Derby// Velazquez injured// Flashback off trail// Ark Derby & Blue Grass works// more...

Wood Memorial (G1)

Winner (pts): Verrazano (100)

2nd, 3rd, 4th (pts): Normandy Invasion (40), Vyjack (20), Mr. Palmer (10)

Chart: Equibase

Replay: YouTube

Beyer/BRIS: 95/100

Recaps: Bloodhorse / DRF / Brisnet / NYTimes

CTD Analysis: You will hear a lot about the Wood Memorial (G1) from now until the first Saturday in May. Considering Verrazano is the likely favorite of the Kentucky Derby and the fact he did not win the Wood by daylight as many thought he should, bettors now have reason to look elsewhere on their Derby program.

You will hear talk of the speed figure- a 95 Beyer- and how it paled in comparison to the 105 earned by Goldencents on the West Coast. You will also hear talk of the pace, which was slow and something Verrazano was essentially part of and took advantage of. You will hear from those who think another furlong and Normandy Invasion would have been the one earning 100 points instead of Verrazano.

All of that will happen, but Verrazano is still my current pick- bad post position not withstanding- of winning this year’s Kentucky Derby. You can’t fault him for being towards the front end of a slow pace. We knew going in, the Wood Memorial would be devoid of a fast pacesetter so jockey John Velazquez was left with no other option. From the moment Verrazano began to accelerate to the lead around the 3/4 pole it was not exactly pretty. Despite the premature burst, Verrazano dug in nonetheless the rest of the way and fought off a very hard charging Normandy Invasion. While he didn’t earn any “eye-popping” points, we finally got to see how Verrazano acts when faced with a stiff challenge. It was a good lesson learned, plus a with quicker pace in the Derby and further training, I think Verrazano can rate further off the front and make a stronger sustained run later into the final turn.

Normandy Invasion stamped himself the likely wise-guy pick of this year’s Derby. Everyone looks for a strong finisher for the extended distance of the Derby, and Normandy Invasion is the proverbial diamond in the rough. As much as I dislike comparing horses to previous Classic runners, I can’t help but be reminded of 2011 Kentucky Derby runner-up Nehro. There’s something to be said for horses who constantly find trouble and always end up the fighting bridesmaid on the big stage. 

Vyjack was considered Verrazano’s main threat but faltered in the late stages of the Wood to finish third by just a length. He was found to have mucus buildup in his lungs, but it’s likely he won’t relish the added distance either way. Still, if his condition clears up there will be some who feel he could be sitting on sneaky big effort next out.

Santa Anita Derby (G1)

Winner (pts): Goldencents (100)

2nd, 3rd, 4th (pts): Flashback (40), Super Ninety Nine (20), Tiz a Minister (10)

Chart: Equibase

Replay: YouTube

Beyer/BRIS: 105/106

Recaps: Bloodhorse / DRF / Brisnet / AP

CTD Analysis: Jockey Kevin Krigger got his revenge in Saturday’s Santa Anita Derby (G1) with a strong stalk and pounce effort from Goldencents. The race couldn’t have set up any better for the son of Into Mischief as Flashback did not press the pace like he did in the San Felipe (G2) which allowed Goldencents to comfortably bide his time along pacesetter Super Ninety Nine. When Krigger set him down, Goldencents kicked into high gear with more than a length separating him and eventual runner-up Flashback. It was another 8 1/2 lengths back to Super Ninety Nine third, which further indicates just how fast Goldencents was moving.

The Beyer speed figure of 105 is the highest of any prep so far, and will probably further the cause for Goldencents to be among the favorites in the Derby. I’m still not completely sold. There is a good chance Goldencents will get pressure from some of the other 19 entrants in Kentucky Derby, as he did in the San Felipe. If that happens, can he stay calm, cool, and collected or will he exert too much unnecessary energy? It appears O’Neill made some strides with his training leading up to the Santa Anita Derby and could continue to do so, but I’m betting the Derby stage (not to mention distance) will be too much for Goldencents to handle.

Flashback was found to have a knee chip following the race and is unfortunately off the Derby trail. It was a strong effort nonetheless. Super Ninety Nine set too hot of a pace and had nothing left in the tank. As much as I believed he would have a redeeming effort Saturday, it appears his disposition, class, and pedigree will not allow him to move on down the trail.    

News Summary:

John Velazquez, who has a decision to make between riding Orb or Verrazano, was thrown from his mount Sunday. He injured his wrist and ribs but plans on returning to the saddle Derby week// Velazquez is not the only jockey with a tough decision, as Javier Castellano must choose between Louisiana Derby (G2) winner Revolutionary and fast closing Wood runner-up Normandy Invasion// Several Blue Grass (G1) and Arkansas Derby (G1) probables worked over the weekend. You can find their times and reports below// Lots of opinions on Saturday’s Santa Anita Derby and Wood Memorial below// A great article on the short history of synthetic runners and their Derby success- or lack thereof. Since Keeneland converted to Polytrack in 2007 the Kentucky Derby record of the top three Blue Grass (G1) finishers is 13-1-0-2// Sounds like there is a strong possibility Will Take Charge will bypass the Blue Grass and instead train up to the Kentucky Derby. Some feel that raises a red flag// more…

Articles:

Flashback off Kentucky Derby trail with knee chip (Bloodhorse)

Velazquez expects to make Derby after missing three weeks (DRF)

Velazquez, other jockeys have decisions to make (DRF)

Wood, SA Derby thoughts (DRF Blog)

Goldencents will follow same pattern that worked for O’Neill last year (DRF)

Santa Anita Derby recap [video] (DRF)

Wood Memorial recap [video] (DRF)

Verrazano heads Wood trio heading to Louisville (DRF)

Can Verrazano make Kentucky Derby history? (Forbes Online)

Verrazano undefeated by not untested…really? (Horseracing Nation)

Wood Memorial: Ramifications from Saturday’s results (Bleacher Report)

Coming around (a bit) on Verrazano (Left at the Gate)

Derby rematch looms for Verrazano, ‘Invasion’ (Bloodhorse)

Vyjack remains on course for Kentucky Derby (Bloodhorse)

Super Saturday [thoughts on Wood and SA Derby] (Pull The Pocket)

Mylute breezes ‘easy’ half mile; Falling Sky works toward Arkansas Derby (Churchill Downs)

Falling Sky, Frac Daddy shipping to Oaklawn (DRF)

Chad Brown changing horses for Blue Grass [Balance the Books] (DRF)

Rydilluc, Uncaptured, Dewey Square, Undrafted tune up for Blue Grass with works (Keeneland)

West Hills Giant shows readiness for Blue Grass (DRF)

Java’s War, Falling Sky in Blue Grass works (Bloodhorse)

Blue Grass Stakes: Synthetic to dirt in the Derby (SB Nation)

Kenny Troutt headed back to Kentucky Derby with Revolutionary (Dallas Guide Live)

Derby dart board (The Rail NY Times Blog)

Under the radar: Footbridge (DRF)

Works:

Saturday

Uncaptured- KEE- 5F- 1.01:40- B- 13/77

Dewey Square- KEE- 5F- 1.03:00- B- 52/77

Rydilluc- KEE- 7F- 1.28:60- B- 1/1

Demonic- HOL- 7F- 1.27:60- H- 2/3

Dynamic Sky- CD- 5F- 1.01:40- B- 6/14

Sunday

Frac Daddy- GP- 5F- 1.00:56- B- 1/13

Java's War- GP- 5F- 1.00:56- B- 1/13

Mylute- CD- 4F- 50:20- B- 16/24 

Falling Sky- CD- 5F- 1.00:00- B- 2/13

My Name Is Michael- KEE- 4F- 49:00- B- 35/61

Belvin- SA- 4F- 47:60- H- 4/40

War Academy- SA- 7F- 1.26:20- H- 1/3

Manando- SA- 4F- 50:40- H- 36/40

Overanalyze- PMM- 5F- 1.01:30- B- 4/18

Heaven's Runway- OP- 5F- 1.02:60- B- 22/49

Monday

West Hills Giant- BEL- 5F- 1.00:47- B- 2/9

Den's Legacy- SA- 4F- 47:80- H- 6/37

Rankings:

Top 10 (Star-Ledger)

Derby Gauge Top 15 (In The Money)

Haskin’s Derby Dozen 4/8 (Bloodhorse Blog)

Quotes and Tweets:

"Chad says Normandy Invasion came out of Wood in good shape. Will ship to Churchill on 4-14. Will give Javier some time to make decision"- David Grening via Twitter

"Verrazano will be the Derby fav. Should get a good price on Orb and he is my early pick to win"- Mike Battaglia via Twitter

“Rafael Bejarano will replace injured John Velazquez on Overanalyze in Ark Derby on Saturday, according to Pletcher.” Jay Privman via Twitter

"Will Take Charge to 'probably' train up to Kentucky Derby, trainer Wayne Lukas said. #TitletownFive to run in Derby Trial as Preakness prep"- Robert Yates via Twitter