Witness the Dawn of Champions in These Crucial Derby Prep Races
Spotlight on Gulfstream's Fountain of Youth
The 1 1/16-mile Grade 2 Fountain of Youth stakes at Gulfstream Park promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with seven promising colts battling for the winner’s share of 50 points and a near-guaranteed spot in the Kentucky Derby starting gate. Post time is set for 5:44 p.m. EST. Burnham Square, fresh off his Holy Bull (G3) victory, aims to solidify his position as a top contender. Trainer Ian Wilkes, who has a history of success with past Derby winners, believes Burnham Square has the potential to make a significant impact. Sovereignty, last seen winning the Street Sense at Churchill Downs, returns to action with high hopes. Meanwhile, River Thames, trained by Todd Pletcher, seeks to continue his undefeated streak as he steps up to stakes company.Analysts predict a fast pace, with River Thames and Neoequos likely vying for the lead. Keep It Easy may press just behind, while Sovereignty could emerge as the lone late runner. TimeformUS forecasts an exciting race where tactical speed and stamina will play critical roles.Aqueduct's Gotham Stakes: A Fresh Start for Many
At Aqueduct, the one-turn mile Gotham Stakes (G3) features a field of ten hopefuls competing for the lion’s share of 50 Derby points. Most of these young horses are making their debut on the Derby trail, adding an element of unpredictability to the race.Calling Card, who placed eighth in the Lecomte (G3), stands out as the exception. Sand Devil, having won three consecutive races against New York-bred competition, is generating buzz. Trainers and jockeys alike are eyeing this race as a key opportunity to establish momentum heading into the Derby.TimeformUS projects a fast pace, driven by Sacrosanct and Sand Devil. The addition of blinkers to Calling Card suggests trainers are looking to enhance his early speed. Ed DeRosa’s analysis points to several intriguing angles, making this race a must-watch for Derby enthusiasts.Santa Anita's San Felipe: Baffert's Trio Takes Center Stage
Santa Anita hosts the 1 1/16-mile San Felipe (G2), where six horses will vie for the 50 Derby points on offer. Three of these runners are trained by the legendary Bob Baffert, including Barnes, the undefeated winner of the San Vicente (G2). Rodriguez, who finished second in the Robert B. Lewis (G3), looks to build on his credentials. Journalism, once the Derby futures favorite, returns under trainer Mike McCarthy, aiming to upset the speedy Bafferts.TimeformUS anticipates an average pace, with any of Baffert’s trio potentially taking control. Barnes could dominate from the front, but Rodriguez and Journalism are not far behind. Ed DeRosa highlights Journalism as a compelling alternative choice, citing his strong form and strategic positioning.The Santa Anita Handicap: A Clash of Titans
Capping off the day’s graded-stakes action, the Santa Anita Handicap (G1) sees ten older males contest over 1 1/4 miles on the dirt. Locked, trained by Todd Pletcher, and Hit Show, from Brad Cox’s stable, travel to take on a group of local challengers. This race offers a chance to challenge Pegasus World Cup Invitational (G1) winner White Abarrio for supremacy in the handicap division.TV coverage of the Fountain of Youth and San Felipe will air on CNBC and Peacock from 5 to 7 p.m. EST. The Gotham Stakes will be shown as part of “America’s Day at the Races” on FS2 beginning at 2 p.m. EST. All preps races will also be available on FanDuelTV, ensuring fans can follow every moment of the action.The inaugural Virginia Derby, set to take place on March 15, has garnered significant attention with a total of 89 three-year-olds nominated. This event, alongside the Virginia Oaks for fillies, marks the first-ever Kentucky Derby qualifying race at Colonial Downs. Both races offer crucial points towards the prestigious Kentucky Derby and Oaks, respectively. The Virginia Derby will award 50 points to the winner, while the top five finishers will earn decreasing points. Trainers like Ken McPeek and Brad Cox have submitted multiple horses, including notable contenders such as Maximum Promise, Render Judgment, Disco Time, and Good Cheer. Additionally, the week features other stakes races, highlighting the depth of talent in Virginia-bred horses.
Virginia Derby: A Star-Studded Lineup Awaits
The Virginia Derby, scheduled for Saturday, March 15, is shaping up to be a thrilling event with 89 three-year-old colts vying for glory. The race offers substantial points toward the Kentucky Derby, making it a critical stop on the road to Churchill Downs. Trainers are keen to showcase their best, with Ken McPeek leading the charge with 14 nominations. Among his top prospects are Maximum Promise and Render Judgment, both of whom have already earned qualifying points. Brad Cox also boasts an impressive roster of 11 nominees, headlined by Disco Time and John Hancock. These horses have proven their mettle in previous races, adding excitement to the competition.
The Virginia Derby not only promises competitive racing but also serves as a platform for emerging talent. Omaha Omaha, trained by Michael Gorham, has already accumulated 11 Derby points from strong performances in the Withers and Jerome stakes. Bob Baffert's stable, known for producing champions, includes Del Mar Futurity winner Gaming. This horse was an Eclipse finalist as outstanding male juvenile, bringing additional prestige to the field. The race sets the stage for a thrilling weekend, culminating in a key qualifier for one of the most prestigious events in horse racing.
Virginia Oaks: Fillies Battle for Glory and Points
The Virginia Oaks, held alongside the Virginia Derby, will see 57 three-year-old fillies competing for 50 points toward the Kentucky Oaks. Brad Cox leads all trainers with 10 nominations, including Godolphin’s multiple graded stakes winner Good Cheer. This filly has been undefeated in her five starts, making her a formidable contender. Whit Beckman’s barn contributes four fillies, with Simply Joking standing out after winning the Letellier and Silverbulletday stakes. Her performance has already earned her 20 Oaks points, setting high expectations for the race.
The Virginia Oaks highlights the growing prominence of female thoroughbreds in competitive racing. The stakes action kicks off on Friday, March 14, with two Virginia-restricted overnight handicaps for older horses. This ensures a focus on locally bred talent, emphasizing the importance of Virginia’s contribution to the sport. The Boston Handicap and Stellar Wind Handicap add further depth to the weekend, with notable entries like Book’em Danno and Binnie showcasing their prowess. Entries for both the Derby and Oaks will be drawn next Saturday, ensuring a fair and competitive lineup. Following this meet, Colonial Downs plans an expanded 2025 season, promising more exciting races ahead.