Kentucky Derby 2013 Point Standings

With only the two “wild-card” Derby prep races left for determining the horses that will race in the May 4 Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs’ new points system used to determine the field of 20 on May 4 seems to have accomplished what it set out to do:  Horses who have shown talent, ability, form and fit to make it the Derby distance get into the Derby field.

Two Derby preps remain – the Coolmore Lexington Stakes on Saturday at Keeneland, and the Derby Trial at Churchill Downs on April 27.  Both offer 20 points for first and the winners could earn starting berths in the Derby if their connections desire.

Coolmore Lexington Stakes

Probables: Cerro, Examen, Hip Four Sixtynine, Johnny Handsome, Pick Of The Litter, Pure Fun, Taken By The Storm (5), Where’s Dominic and Winning Cause.

Derby Trial

Probables: Titletown Five, Sunbean

Note: Points only come into play if more than the maximum 20 horses enter the Derby. If there are 20 or fewer, all entrants run. Under the new system, fillies can earn points only if they run in open races, not races restricted to fillies. So, if the race doesn’t fill, a horse such as Dreaming of Julia could make the Derby field.

Only 20 spots to fill, with plenty on the Derby bubble.  Who’s in?  Who’s out?  These remaining three weeks will give us the answer!