9. Classic Empire
Derby Points/Rank: 32 – 21st
Race Record: (6) 4-0-1
Earnings: $1,520,220
Breeding: Pioneerof the Nile – Sambuca Classica
Owner: John Oxley
Trainer: Mark Casse
Last Race: Grade 2 Holy Bull Stakes at Gulfstream Park, Finished 3rd
Analysis: THREE straight solid workouts… can he do it? Will he come around at just the right time and win this week’s Arkansas Derby? If he can, he will most likely be the favorite on the first Saturday in May. This crop is crying out for a star… maybe it was Classic Empire all along. The opportunity couldn’t be bigger for him, but can he quit acting like an asshole and take advantage of it?
