The Triple Crown season is officially upon us.
The Kentucky Derby Future Wager Pool 1 closed on Sunday — with few surprises in the wagering.
As is typical in these pari-mutuel pools, the field, which encompasses all horses not listed as individual entrants, was favored at 6/5. Next came Breeders’ Cup Juvenile (GI) winner Classic Empire at 6-1, recent Bob Hope champion Mastery (10-1), ungraded stakes winner McCracken (12-1) and the winner of Saturday’s Remsen, Mo Town (also 12-1).
In terms of value, I think Gunnevera, the impressive winner of the Delta Jackpot (GIII) bears consideration, as does Nashua (GII) winner Hemsworth.
I’m also very intrigued by Irish War Cry.
To date, the New Jersey-bred son of Curlin has only won a single race — at six furlongs, no less — but the way he captured that maiden affair suggests he’s one to keep a close eye on. Irish War Cry earned a 0 late speed ration (LSR), despite going wide on the turn and racing greenly in his career debut.
Below is a look at the Pool 1 contenders, along with their closing odds and my Win Factor Report fair odds:
