It’s still extremely early to have any idea who the top contenders for the Kentucky Derby will be. Despite that, I’m going to rank who I believe are the 5 best at this point in time. The list will probably be laughable by the time the First Saturday in May arrives, but oh well. Feel free to comment with who you think has the best chance to annex the most important race in the United States this year!
#1 Lookin at Lucky- The champion two-year-old colt has been phenomenal every time he has stepped on the track. While his Beyer Speed Figures aren’t overly impressive, I think he has the best shot of any colt to win the Kentucky Derby at this point in time. He is a regally bred son of Smart Strike so he should be able to run all day long. He couldn’t be in better hands thanks to Bob Baffert and Garrett Gomez. The only thing going against him at this point is the fact that he hasn’t raced on dirt yet. He will be racing with blinkers for the first time in his next start. I expect to see him return in the Rebel Stakes at Oaklawn Park and I’m very much looking forward to watching him run.
#2 Jackson Bend- He won me over with his strong run in the Holy Bull Stakes where he was a close second behind the now injured Winslow Homer. He had all kinds of trouble in that race. Nick Zito should have him ready to run huge next out in the Fountain of Youth.
#3 Tahitian Warrior- I’m not sure what this one has been doing lately, but I saw him run very well to score first out at Gulfstream Park against maiden special weight company. I’ve got a good feeling about his ability.
#4 Buddy’s Saint- The winner of the Nashua and Remsen was flattered when Peppi Knows won the Whirlaway Stakes this past weekend. He can certainly get the distance.
#5 Noble’s Promise- He has been in the shadow of Lookin at Lucky lately, but showed he can run with the big boys when he won the Grade 1 Dixiana Futurity at Keeneland.
Who do you like?!