Racing Dudes Three Stars of the Week: A New Derby Contender

The Kentucky Derby Trail rolled on last Saturday with the running of the Lecomte Stakes (G3) at Fair Grounds, while state-bred horses took center stage at Gulfstream Park and Santa Anita Park. Check out who we thought were the three top stars after all the action unfolded: 

1. Enforceable 

We’ve got a new Kentucky Derby contender! The Mark Casse-trained Enforceable had shown some talent as a 2-year-old; however, he stepped up his game to a new level last Saturday evening with a 1 1/2-length win in the Lecomte Stakes (G3) at Fair Grounds. After falling towards the back of the field early on, he was able to commence a bold rally on the turn before taking advantage of the long Fair Grounds stretch to strike to the front. From that point, he was able to hold off a late run from Silver State while also keeping Mr. Monomoy from making up any kind of ground. The win moves him to second in the Kentucky Derby points standings, making him a prime contender. 

2. Silver Dust 

This horse has turned into a total pro, especially when running at Fair Grounds. He simply “dusted” his rivals last Saturday in the Louisiana Stakes (G3), strolling home for an easy 4 1/4-length victory as the 3/5 favorite. Jockey Jack Gilligan secured a solid early stalking position up the back side before striking the front at the top of the lane. From there, he was able to put away the pace-setting Gun It while holding off a late run from a grinding Blended Citizen. This win shows that he is ready for another solid season running in these types of race, with his next start most likely coming at Fair Grounds in the Mineshaft Handicap (G3) on Risen Star Day. 

3. Mind Control 

He’s back! Mind Control retuned to the races after an extended break last Saturday, making his 4-year-old debut a winning one in the Toboggan Stakes (G3) at Aqueduct. This was not an easy win, though, with the finish coming down to a photo between three horses. Mind Control was able to stalk the pace early before taking the lead in the stretch. However, Nicodemus and Sunny Ridge were closing fast, both of which looked like they were going to get by Mind Control in the final stages of the contest. As they approached the wire, all three horses hit the line together, but it was Mind Control who got his nose down first. He will likely move forward off of this effort, which should make him a dangerous sprinter all season long.