Exciting Weekend Ahead for Kentucky Derby Contenders

LEXINGTON, Ky. — As the countdown to the GI Kentucky Derby reaches the one-month mark, significant pre-race activity is set to unfold this weekend at Santa Anita, Keeneland, and Aqueduct. Several top contenders will engage in crucial nine-furlong preps that will shape the future Derby field.

Leading the charge is Citizen Bull, owned by SF Racing LLC, Starlight Racing, Madaket Stables LLC, and others. The $675,000 colt by Into Mischief arrives at the GI Santa Anita Derby with an impressive record of 4 wins from 5 starts, including the GI Breeders’ Cup Juvenile. Trainers and analysts are keenly observing his performance after a nine-week layoff.

Bob Baffert, Citizen Bull’s trainer, has a remarkable history of returning horses from similar layoffs with success, holding a 33% win rate in such scenarios over the last five years. However, given the colt’s extended break and his crucial position at the top of Baffert’s barn, this situation departs from the traditional trends of Baffert’s Santa Anita Derby contenders.

“Citizen Bull has continued to impress. He’s been able to maintain his form while training and seems ready for this challenge,” Baffert stated. Citizen Bull will break from post position two among five runners on Saturday.

Contender Journalism, another California resident, also aims for success this weekend. Trained by Michael McCarthy, Journalism has established himself as an athletic stalker following a strong performance in the GII San Felipe Stakes. The $825,000 colt has accumulated enough points to secure a spot in the Kentucky Derby, raising questions about his peak state for the upcoming race.

“We’re hopeful that Journalism can capture the Santa Anita Derby. His recent performances have shown he can handle competitive fields,” McCarthy remarked.

Completing the lineup of serious competitors is Tappan Street, trained by Brad H. Cox. The $1 million colt is entering the race with a lifetime record of two wins from three starts and after a notable win in the GI Florida Derby. Though he remains lightly raced, Cox is confident in his ability to handle the physical demands of a crowded Derby field.

“Tappan Street has the tactical speed necessary for a successful run in the Derby. He’s shown that he can adapt to different race scenarios,” Cox said. Jockey Luis Saez has expressed faith in the young colt’s capabilities, highlighting their growing rapport.

In addition to Citizen Bull, Journalism, and Tappan Street, the Santa Anita Derby will showcase other promising runners, including Captain Cook and Sovereignty, both looking to solidify their standings in the Kentucky Derby hierarchy.

With the Derby looming, analysts and trainers alike recognize the significance of this weekend’s races, as selections will soon transition from the Top 12 to the confirmed Kentucky Derby field of 20 runners.