Cairo Prince (Pioneerof The Nile x Holy Bubbette by Holy Bull): The Holy Bull Stakes was supposed to be a contentious event, but Cairo Prince made it look easy when he powered home to victory. He hasn’t raced since, but is reportedly training well and should be the favorite in his next start; the Florida Derby. Kiaran McLaughlin trains and Luis Saez rides this Kentucky Derby contender.
Social Inclusion (Pioneerof The Nile x Saint Bernadette by Saint Ballado): Ran off the screen when making quick work of Honor Code en route to a track record time. It was only his second start, but clearly he has big things in his future. It is a future that is uncertain right now as his owner could sell him for a multi-million dollar payday.
Hoppertunity (Any Given Saturday x Refugee by Unaccounted For): Lived up to his potential when scoring the Rebel Stakes from Oaklawn Park. His trainer, Bob Baffert, has owned the Rebel over the years. His horses have won four of the last five editions of the race. He got a 100 Beyer Speed Figure for the win which means he is right on track with his competition.
Tapiture (Tapit x Free Spin by Olympio): Tried to hit a hole that wasn’t really there in the Rebel Stakes, but proved a lot by doing so. First, we know he won’t back down from a fight. Second, we know he can handle trouble and keep going. Third, we know jockey Ricardo Santana is good enough to get the job done. If he continues to improve the competition might be in trouble.
California Chrome (Lucky Pulpit x Love The Chase by Not For Love): If the Kentucky Derby were contested at 9 furlongs I would be all over this horse. He is profesional, his speed is tactical and he just plain runs fast. However, his pedigree could limit him in the end. It’s tough to see him getting the classic distance of the Kentucky Derby. Art Sherman will try his best to make that happen though. Victor Espinoza won the Derby in 2002 on War Emblem.