1. Classic Empire
Derby Points/Rank: 132 – 2nd
Race Record: (7) 5-0-1
Earnings: $2,120,220
Breeding: Pioneerof the Nile – Sambuca Classica
Owner: John Oxley
Trainer: Mark Casse
Last Race: Grade 1 Arkansas Derby at Oaklawn Park, Finished 1st
Analysis: Talk about coming full circle. Classic Empire was ranked number one on our first list of the year, but after a disappointing run in the Holy Bull, he lost that spot when week two rolled around. Now he’s back to number one after a bounce-back win in the Arkansas Derby. It looked to me like he got a TON out of the race, and I loved the way he showed that he has no problem sitting behind horses and waiting to make his move. He might be ready for a big effort in Kentucky.
