Contenders for the Kentucky Derby and Oaks participated in critical training sessions across the country, with notable performances including Sierra Leone’s half-mile breeze at Keeneland and Catching Freedom’s early morning workout at Churchill Downs, as preparations intensify less than two weeks before the first weekend in May.
– ‣ Sierra Leone, a ‘TDN Rising Star’ and $2.3-million topper from the 2022 Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Sale, completed a notable half-mile breeze at Keeneland, showcasing readiness for the upcoming Kentucky Derby.
– ‣ Catching Freedom, the GII Louisiana Derby winner, demonstrated strong form with a five-furlong work at Churchill Downs, despite receiving less attention compared to other contenders.
– ‣ Stronghold, the GI Santa Anita Derby winner, impressed with a swift half-mile breeze at Santa Anita, indicating strong preparation for the Kentucky Derby under the guidance of trainer Phil D’Amato.
CATCHING FREEDOM trained by @bradcoxracing works 5 furlongs in 1:00.80 ahead of the 150th #KyDerby pic.twitter.com/lhZB3vOdWp
— Kentucky Derby (@KentuckyDerby) April 20, 2024
With the first weekend of May just around the corner, the buzz around the GI Kentucky Derby and GI Kentucky Oaks is palpable. Contenders from all over have been hitting the tracks for some crucial final breezes. This past Saturday morning was no exception.
‘TDN Rising Star’ Sierra Leone, fresh off a victory at the Apr. 6 GI Toyota Blue Grass S., stayed put at Keeneland. Despite the chill, he was out there, breezing a half-mile alongside Keeneland maiden winner White Palomino. They clocked in at :48.80 (19/127), and yes, there’s a video to prove it.
The spotlight’s also on the $2.3-million top pick from last year’s Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Sale. His splits? Pretty even – :12.40, :24.20, and :36.80, before stretching out impressively in the gallop out. And guess who was riding? Kriss Bon. He seemed pretty upbeat, probably because he was betting on Joel Embiid playing in the 76ers’ playoff opener against the Knicks.
Chad Brown, Sierra Leone’s trainer, shared some insights. “I’ve always worked him in company in the mornings,” he said. It seems Sierra Leone thrives on a bit of competition, just something to keep him focused and in the bridle. Brown added, “He’s a good-feeling horse–a nice horse to work around.” Apparently, Sierra Leone’s got quite the personality, dominating his space like a true alpha.
Next stop for Sierra Leone? Churchill, this Sunday. And if the weather gods permit, his final breeze is set for Apr. 27.
Brown’s not putting all his eggs in one basket, though. He’s got another Derby hopeful, Domestic Product, who breezed a half-mile in :48.40 at Payson Park. He’s heading to Kentucky on Monday, along with Oaks contender Ways and Means. She clocked five panels in 1:00.60 at Payson Park Saturday.
Now, let’s talk about Catching Freedom. Despite being the GII Louisiana Derby winner, he’s flying under the radar. Early Saturday morning, before the sun even thought about rising, he was out at Churchill, clocking five furlongs in 1:00.80. His fractions? A slow start but a strong finish, according to clocker John Nichols. Brad Cox, his trainer, also had Just a Touch breeze a half-mile in :48.20.
Over on Twitter, the Kentucky Derby’s official account is buzzing with updates. They’ve got clips of Catching Freedom’s workout and are hyping up the 150th #KyDerby.
‘TDN Rising Star’ Tarifa is also making waves as the Oaks favorite. She and Gin Gin breezed five furlongs in 1:00.80, showcasing their readiness.
Just Steel, another Justify progeny, had a bit of an adventure during his six-furlong breeze, finishing strong despite some unexpected company.
Danny Gargan’s got a duo ready for the Derby, with Dornoch and Society Man eyeing each other down during their breezes.
Ken McPeek’s hopefuls, Mystik Dan and Thorpedo Anna, are showing promise, too. McPeek’s especially bullish about Thorpedo Anna, warning, “They better bring a bear because I’m bringing a grizzly.”
And let’s not forget about Stronghold over at Santa Anita. He breezed a swift half-mile in :46.60, impressing jockey Antonio Fresu and trainer Phil D’Amato. He’s Kentucky-bound next Tuesday, with one final workout on the horizon.
So, as the Derby day approaches, the anticipation builds. These contenders are not just running; they’re carrying dreams, hopes, and the excitement of everyone watching. Let the countdown begin.
