Render Judgment to Compete in 2025 Kentucky Derby

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Render Judgment is set to compete in the 151st Kentucky Derby on May 3, 2025. The horse secured its spot in the prestigious race by earning points through Kentucky Derby prep races since last September.

The post-position draw for the race will take place on Saturday, April 26, with a scheduled post time of 6:57 p.m. on Derby day. Render Judgment, trained by Kenny McPeek, will enter the race after finishing fifth in the Grade 1 Blue Grass on April 8 at Keeneland. He ranks 18th on the Kentucky Derby points leaderboard with 39 points.

Render Judgment’s history includes a maiden victory at Churchill Downs and a second-place finish in the Virginia Derby at Colonial Downs. The horse was purchased for $310,000 at the 2023 Fasig-Tipton Kentucky Select Yearling Sale.

Owned by Baccari Racing Stable, Dream Walkin Farms, MJM Racing, and Rocket Ship Racing, this will be the first Derby for both Baccari Racing and Dream Walkin Farms. Notably, Dream Walkin Farms was co-founded by late country music star Toby Keith, who had long wished to have a horse compete in the Derby.

“It was Toby’s dream,” the team shared on social media. “He worked so hard to finally have one there! Toby will have the best seat in the house to watch.”

Trainer Kenny McPeek expressed his initial hesitation about entering Render Judgment in the Derby but later supported the decision made by the ownership group. He acknowledged the sentimental value this race has for Keith’s family. “I understand the dream,” McPeek said. “I’m hoping a higher power comes through.”

Jockey Julien Leparoux is slated to ride Render Judgment for the first time. McPeek has previously secured one Derby win with Mystik Dan in 2024. Fans can expect an exciting race as Render Judgment lines up against 19 other competitors on May 3.