Kentucky Derby 2015 Recap

10th: Carpe Diem – It’s really hard for a horse that has always liked to rate outside horses to draw the inside position that he did.  I am crossing a line completely through this one as he was on the rail pressing the pace with so many rivals to his outside.  He’s got better days ahead of him after this unlucky draw.

11th: Frammento – No doubt this deep closer was hurt by the pace, and also had to go seven wide on the final turn to make his move.  Had a little traffic trouble as well in the stretch, and really never threatened after that happened.  His running style has to have a “fall apart” type pace to be successful.

12th: Bolo – Gave another average effort on the dirt…really just needs to find some nice turf races this summer.  He has a much more explosive turn of foot on the turf.

13th: Mr. Z – He got squeezed pretty tight going past the grandstands for the first time and had to check several times.  Once he steadied he had a five wide trip the rest of the way while chasing the pace.  Looked to be pretty tired when he finally entered the stretch and dropped back.  Should get a break now that the Kentucky Derby is over.

14th: Ocho Ocho Ocho – Many thought he would go straight to the front once he drew the one hole, but he actually was taken in hand early and rated back in behind the first group.  When it was time to run he made no move and faded.  Needs to be shortened up in distance for his next start.

15th: Far Right – Was the trailer for most of the race, but unfortunately the pace never materialized, plus he had to swing very wide on the far turn to make his move.  The lack of pace killed him, but he may be a cut below the best horses in this crop.

16th: War Story – Never got any momentum going whatsoever.  Had an inside trip that caused a few issues on the far turn, but mostly just looked like he wasn’t ever good enough to make an impact.  Will need some class relief before he’s competitive.

17th: Tencendur – Chased the pace for a bit, but folded up his tent pretty early.  It’s becoming clear that his race in the Wood Memorial may have been a little bit of a fluke.

18th: Upstart – It was a non-effort for him so there isn’t much to take away from this race.  He barely crossed the wire so obviously he was either injured or something was bothering him.  He’ll live to fight another day hopefully.