Updated profiles, with post positions and track odds for the 20 3-year-olds entered for the 151st running of the $5 million Kentucky Derby (G1) at Churchill Downs is Saturday (May 3).
At first glance, Final Gambit looks like a second-tier contender, but let’s just believe trainer Brad Cox knows an improving horse when he sees one.
That could be the case here, but there are quite a few drawbacks: Can he handle a dirt surface after going 2-for-4 on turf and synthetic surfaces, most recently winning the Jeff Ruby Steaks (G3) at Turfway Park to earn 100 Kentucky Derby qualifying points and secure a berth in the Run for the Roses.
And, can a first-time Derby rider -- Luan Machado–– deal with the intense pressure of Derby Day in a field of 20 3-year-olds?
Cox also sends out Florida Derby (G1) winner Tappan Street as he seeks a second Derby win – he won in 2021 with Mandaloun via the disqualification of Medina Spirit.
He won at third asking and then pulled off an upset in the 1 1/8-mile Jeff Ruby at 15-1 odds with a strong closing run.
“I knew keeping [Final Gambit] in the clear around the turn would probably be best,’’ Machado said after the race. “Sometimes when he’s between horses, he doesn’t try as hard as when he’s in the clear. He really closed fast down the lane and was impressive late.”
He’s had three works on dirt, most recently going 5 furlongs in 1:00.80 at Churchill Downs on April 19.
“The best horse doesn't win this race," Cox said. "The horse with the best trip wins the race.”
If Final Gambit has clear sailing, perhaps this lightly raced colt running on dirt for the first time, with a first-time Derby jockey, can finish in the first tier. No bet.
The writing team at US Racing is comprised of both full-time and part-time contributors with expertise in various aspects of the Sport of Kings.
