The 2009 Kentucky Derby is only days away and the moving and shaking has already begun. Who will be the main contenders in this year’s Run for the Roses?
The jewel in the Triple Crown is almost here. It promises to be the most electrifying in years featuring such highlights as the dazzling finishing speed of hot favorite I Want Revenge (3.75) and the elegant power of Friesan Fire (7.00), who set the track alight in Mondays workout.
Pioneerof the Nile (6.50) is another strong contender and his odds to win the Kentucky Derby reflect the public’s confidence in this three year old, as he is among four clear favorites. Trainer Bob Baffert has him primed for Saturday and Pioneer impressed in Mondays workout. He has won all four starts on synthetic surfaces in California since he joined Baffert’s stables but the Derby will be his first test on dirt.
Dunkirk (6.00) is the second of the Kentucky Derby favorites. He opened his career with back-to-back wins at Gulfstream Park by a combined 10 ½ lengths. He suffered his first loss last Saturday by Quality Road in the Florida Derby (Grade I), when they finished 1st and 2nd drawing six lengths clear of the nearest finisher. However, with Quality Road sadly ruled out of the Derby, it could open the door for Dunkirk to challenge the majestic I Want Revenge.
As long shots go, Chocolate Candy (13.00) and Musket Man (26.00) have potential to run strong races and put pressure on the four favorites. Musket Man has faced easier competition than most in his run up to the Derby but has done all that can be asked of him. He has won 5 of 6 career races including a Grade II at Illinois in his last start. If the pace starts out fast but slows toward the end, Musket Man could unload a surprise on Saturday.
Chocolate Candy was recently the runner up in the Santa Anita Derby (Grade I) and his workout in Churchill Downs this week has shown that he can handle the track with ease. His odds to win this year’s Kentucky Derby are generous at +1400 but don’t be surprised if Chocolate Candy is the sweetest of them all come Saturday.
