The Rain Can't Stop Orb
Through wind, rain, and difficult track conditions, Orb emerged as the 2013 Kentucky Derby Champion!
Ridden by Joel Rosario and trained by Shug McGaughey, Orb hovered back at the gate but made his move around the final turn, winning by two lengths and giving Hall of Famer McGaughey his first-ever Derby winner.
A very fast early pace was seen at the start of the Derby. Behind in the final turn, Orb used a furious finish to race past Golden Soul and Revolutionary to
claim the win.
Orb was the 5-1 favorite to win this year’s Derby, but a muddy track left many experts guessing who would come out on top. In most horse races, muddy tracks tend to favor the long shots, as the contending horses usually became favorites by winning on fast courses. Wet conditions even the field and increase the likelihood of injuries and slips for top horses.
This was not the case for Orb!
Orb was in 17th place after ¾ of a mile after getting off to a very slow start. Around the third turn, he improved to 15th place, but was not on anyone’s radar to win the race.
However, Rosario made his move around the final turn pushing Orb to fifth place as they entered the final stretch. Orb unleashed his pure speed down to the wire winning by almost a two full lengths.
Long shot Golden Soul finished in second place, while three-time Kentucky Derby champion Calvin Borel rode Revolutionary to third place.
Despite the bad weather on Derby Day, Churchill Downs reported an attendance of 151,616. NBC Sports' coverage of Saturday’s Kentucky Derby drew 16.2 million viewers, making it the second most-watched Kentucky Derby since 1989.
2013 Kentucky Derby Race Results
2013 Kentucky Oaks Race Results
Watch the Kentucky Derby Replay
Enjoying the Derby Experience
Many of the Derby Experiences guests escaped the rain in many of our Hospitality Party Venues. On Derby Saturday, Magician Matthew Furman made appearances in our Affirmed, Citation, and Secretariat Lounges mesmerizing guests with a new book of tricks!
Guests also had the privilege of meeting Triple Crown Winner, Steve Cauthen, who made appearances in each of our hospitality venues. Cauthen, who rode Affirmed to the 1978 Triple Crown, treated our guests to autographs and photo opportunities throughout Derby Day.
Cauthen was also the recipient of a recognition plaque to honor the 35th Anniversary of his Triple Crown run. Our new Affirmed Lounge will be forever named in Cauthen and Affirmed’s honor!
Don't Miss Out on the 2014 Kentucky Derby
Want to attend the 2014 Kentucky Derby? Derby Experiences® is proud to be the Official Experience Package Provider to Churchill Downs® for the Kentucky Derby® and the Kentucky Oaks®.Through our partnership with Churchill Downs®, we will provide an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. Find my seats now»
Derby Experiences' Top 10 Contenders: Updated 5/3/13
Derby Experiences has been posting our Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks Insider's Top 10 Contenders leading up to the races and now Derby Weekend is here!
In Kentucky, Thoroughbred racing is a way of life and
Loren Hebel-Osborne has made her life-long passion a career. Loren has updated her Top 10 Contenders and lists out the horses she thinks will be in the running at Churchill Downs®.
Kentucky Derby Top 10
Verrazano
Orb
Itsmyluckyday
Revolutionary
Frac Daddy
Overanalyze
Will Take Charge
Oxbow
Palace Malice
Goldencents
Kentucky Oaks Top 10
Midnight Lucky
Dreaming of Julia
Close Hatches
Beholder
Rose to Gold
Unlimited Budget
Silsita
Pure Fun
Seaneen Girl
Princess of Sylmar
When people hear Kentucky Derby™ two things usually come to mind: Horses and Fashion, specifically those hats!
My first glimpse at the spectacle that is Derby Fashion came during one of my all-time favorite movies, Pretty Woman. Who doesn’t remember that scene with Julia Roberts wearing a gorgeous, belted, brown and white polka-dotted dress with crisp white gloves, beautiful earrings and a matching white hat (with polka dot detailing)? Although times and fashion have changed, this still remains the recipe for a great Derby Day outfit.
The Hat
You could probably show up to the Derby in a garbage bag, as long as you had a fabulous hat to match! (We’re just kidding about the garbage bag) however, the hat is as much a part of the Derby as the race itself.
Hats are usually wide-brimmed to protect the wearer from the sun, but also to accommodate all the ornate accessories and embellishments usually laden upon it. Some choose simpler hats with a single flower or ribbon accessory.
Others go all out including a combination of different flowers, ribbons, feathers, tulle, bows, frills and just about any other design element you can think of! With a Derby Hat your imagination and creativity are your only limits.
The Dress (Skirt or Pants!)
While the tradition of Derby Hats has remained consistent the standard for an outfit has changed. It’s a safe bet to go with a simple but well fitting dress (let the hat steal the show), however as fashion has evolved, so have the outfits seen at the Kentucky Derby.
Guests are now more daring and some great Derby Fashion moments have been born from those adventurous few. Maxi dresses and rompers which have never been the norm, look amazing paired with a Derby hat. Also a pencil skirt or full skirt with an in-season neon top and simpler hat would fit in at Churchill Downs.
At this year’s Macy’s Kentucky Derby Festival Fashion Show, the runway was populated by dresses but surprisingly shorts made a well-received appearance as well. Proving that fashion this year will be varied, unpredictable and fun!
The Accessories
If you want to be the topic of a blog like our girl, Julia, then do as she did and accessorize! Her gloves, belt, jewelry and shoes made her outfit. It’s not uncommon for ladies to wear gloves of lace or other materials, and the skinny belted-dress trend will certainly be seen a great deal at Derby.
Other accessories to keep in mind are jewelry and shoes. Jewelry such as watches can serve two purposes of both practicality (don’t want to miss those post times) and fashion. Also donning the in-trend statement necklaces, earrings or more unconventional pieces can add to your Derby Day look. Shoes will range from sky high heels to comfortable, cute flats or sandals. Personally I like wedges, as they give you great height and are usually kinder to keep your feet in for an entire day versus regular heels.
Finally as a note to the practical: sunglasses and shoulder bag would be a great way to complete your outfit, protect your eyes and store all your stuff (also it’ll keep your hands free for cheering and holding Mint Juleps!)
The main thing to keep in mind is that Derby Day fashion is about incorporating your own style into the traditions of Churchill Downs AND having fun!
Derby Experiences' Top 10 Contenders: Updated 4/24/13
Derby Experiences will be posting our Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks Insider's Top 10 Contenders leading up to the races in May. In Kentucky, Thoroughbred racing is a way of life and Loren Hebel-Osborne has made her life-long passion a career.
Loren has updated her Top 10 Contenders following this weekend's Kentucky Derby Championship Series Races and explains why she thinks these horses will be in the running at Churchill Downs®.
Kentucky Derby Top 10
The prep races are over so now all eyes are on the final work-outs leading up to the Kentucky Derby. Many Derby and Oaks contenders are already on the grounds. Churchill Downs has once again initiated special training hours for horses that entered for either the Oaks or the Derby from 8:30 – 8:45 a.m. While some trainers still opt for other time slots when they believe the track to be at its peak condition (generally thought to be at 6:00 a.m. when the track opens for training) most entrants don their specially created saddle towels and hit the track for an all-stars type training extravaganza. Everyone wants to hold the bragging rights of having spotted the winner of the Derby or Oaks in advance. Here is my Kentucky Derby Top 10:
Itsmyluckyday
He is not on the grounds of Churchill Downs yet but I’m sticking to my guns that this is my top pick due to his speed and raw talent. I want to see him in person and watch him travel over the Churchill Downs track
Orb
Reports from his work in Florida were impressive – can’t wait to see him on the grounds. To know his trainer and have him be excited … that’s really saying something. Shug is as conservative as they get!
MyLute
This horse loves the track and has made his works look effortless. Seems to really get along with Rosie. Don’t forget that he was gaining the length of his stride in the LA Derby – what appears to be a key race.
Revolutionary
A very lanky individual in person. Very nice work with Calvin up. This might be just the right match up of horse and rider.
Verrazano
As expected, he is as grand in his photos as he is in person. I would still like to see a little more “scrappiness” in this colt to prove to me he can handle the bumping and knocking that is so prevalent in the 20- horse field.
Oxbow
Athletic mover and very aggressive in his training – even to gallop. This is a real race horse that loves every minute!
Will Take Charge
Lovely big stride where he really appears to reach and flick those front feet. He might be a little nervous as Wayne keeps blinkers on even to train. Lots of erratic ears even in the morning.
Overanalyze
Much bigger colt than I expected and looks incredibly fit – lean and dappled. Waiting for his work.
Frac Daddy
Rarely drops an ear in training – focused and pulling his rider around the track. This is a scrappy colt who could make exotic wagering pay offs interesting and McPeek is on a roll!
Goldencents
It was a fabulous win in the Santa Anita Derby but his stride was shortening in the last 16th – not sure he can stay. Waiting to see him at Churchill.
Flashback is off list and the Derby trail with a knee chip. Hear the Ghost is also off the Derby trail with injury. Finally, Shanghai Bobby is off my list and the Derby Trail.
Kentucky Oaks Top 10
Based on what I’ve been seeing in the morning, Midnight Lucky is the most impressive filly I have seen since Winning Colors and I believe she could win the Oaks OR the Derby. While I don’t think the Derby is even a consideration for her (no rumors to begin) she looks to be mature way beyond her years - both physically and mentally! She is confident and relaxed all at the same time and the condition of her weight and coat color are perfection. Midnight Lucky easily makes my number one spot!
Midnight Lucky
Easily the most impressive horse on the grounds! She’s big, beautiful, lovely easy stride, professional race horse that is unconcerned with media and chaos. She’s a freak in so many ways. She moves to my top choice – in fact I would put her at the top of my Derby top ten too – very very special filly.
Unlimited Budget
Waiting to see her in person at Churchill but this filly has been super impressive – cruises at a very high speed.
Kauai Katie
A beautiful filly with a lot of expression. Made victory in the Acorn look like a workout.
Dreaming of Julia
So much class and she shows up every time ready to do battle – can’t wait to see her train at Churchill.
Rose to Gold
She’s little and tough. Ears pinned for the whole trip. NO one was going by her in the Honeybee. A red head on a rampage – love it! But if she’s not in the mood on Oaks Day … red heads can refuse to run too!
Blonde Fog
This is another filly who needs to learn to relax up front if she is to be able to carry that speed all the way to the wire. She doesn’t have a lot of experience. Blinkers are not very severe, he may even cut back to smaller cups to get her to relax.
Fiftyshadesofhay
With all the speed in the race, this filly could close.
Beholder
Mandella has gotten her to relax at home but I’m still concerned about her shipping and being able to relax. Ulcers due to nervousness and fretting is a chronic management issue for the trainer. She really needs the trip in the Oaks – no traffic.
Pure Fun
Drops a bit on my top ten but I still love this filly and think her preferred surface is dirt. Didn’t understand the Keeneland race but Kenny McPeek will have her ready for Churchill
Emolient
Incredible romp in the Ashland – makes my list but think she may prefer polytrack or turf – may have helped her be so impressive. With other speedy fillies in Oaks she may not get the lead so easily.
See Something, Say Something
In response to the recent attacks in Boston, Churchill Downs Racetrack will strengthen security and hospitality policies and expand screenings for patrons, employees and vendors for the 139th runnings of the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks.
After consulting with many federal, state, and local law enforcement and public safety agencies, Churchill Downs is asking fans to participate in making the 2013 Derby and Oaks racing and entertainment celebrations safe and enjoyable.
To ensure additional safety, Churchill Downs’ track officials have released a revised list of Derby and Oaks “Dos and Don’ts” – items permitted for patron carry-in to the track on those days and items that are banned.
The original list of banned carry-in items can be found here. Additional banned items are listed below:
- Coolers – Coolers will no longer be permitted for carry-in to the infield. Coolers and ice will be available at infield purchase points
- Camcorders, tripods and video equipment
- Cameras with detachable lenses, cameras equipped with lenses more than six inches in length, and tripods of any kind
- Purses must be 12 inches or less in any dimension
- Cans of any kind and size
- Fireworks, laser lights, and pointers and mace/pepper spray
- Noisemakers and air horns
All patrons who enter Churchill Downs on Derby and Oaks Days will be subject to an electronic wand search at admission gates. Prohibited items removed during the admissions process will not be held for retrieval at the conclusion of racing programs.
Be sure to read the complete list of prohibited items and make sure that you and your entire group is prepared for attending this year’s Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks.
3 Ways to Prepare for Added Security
Here is a list of the top 3 things you can do to prepare for the added security
- Please Read: Read the complete list of prohibited & permitted items for the 2013 Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks
- Double, Triple, Quadruple Check: Double check all items that you are bringing with you before leaving your hotel room or home before arriving at Churchill Downs
- When in Doubt, Leave It: If you have any particular belongings that you question will pass security checkpoints, it’s best that you leave them at home. Any items confiscated at security points will not be returned. When in doubt, just leave it at home.
In a recent press release, Churchill Downs stated, “While large numbers of our Churchill Downs team and our law enforcement and public safety partners will be working around and throughout our grounds, fans can play a role in ensuring that the Kentucky Derby and Oaks are enjoyable and safe events. If any patron sees an activity or behavior that seems unusual or suspicious, we hope they will report it to members of our guest service and security teams and allow us to check it out. We want fans to have a wonderful and unforgettable Oaks and Derby Days, but we hope they will remember these words: ‘If you see something, say something.’”
We hope that everyone will adhere to these new security measures and understand that they are put in place for the safety and security of patrons. The 2013 Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks will go on as scheduled and should be exciting events for all of those in attendance.
Derby Experiences' Top 10 Contenders: Updated 4/16/13
Derby Experiences will be posting our Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks Insider's Top 10 Contenders leading up to the races in May. In Kentucky, Thoroughbred racing is a way of life and Loren Hebel-Osborne has made her life-long passion a career.
Loren has updated her Top 10 Contenders following this weekend's Kentucky Derby Championship Series Races and explains why she thinks these horses will be in the running at Churchill Downs®.
Kentucky Derby Top 10
Itsmyluckyday
I’m not getting off him yet – still my favorite. I think he needed the race in the Florida Derby. Pressure is off a bit now for Derby which is good for smaller stable to handle.
Orb
Jaw dropping, gutty performance in the Florida Derby. This is a race horse and veteran trainer Shug McCaughey looks to finally have his shot at the roses!
MyLute
Very impressive performance in the Louisiana Derby. Broke badly at the start but recovered gamely to almost win. He might be blossoming at the right time and his sire is hot, hot, hot! Training like a monster at Churchill!
Revolutionary
This is one gutty race horse. Didn’t like the way he jogged back with the pony after the race (might be a problem there) but if he makes it to the Derby – he will be tough!
Verrazano
I’m the first to admit that I was wrong about this horse! He looked like he was having a blast – ears forward after break and extended stride when horses approached. Race time was slow but if he gets the trip in the Derby – he will wear roses.
Oxbow
I absolutely LOVE this horse. I don’t know if he is a top, top horse yet but his heart is bigger than his body – he is a warrior and loves it!
Vyjack
Wood Memorial performance suggests he can’t go that far but geldings have a special place in my heart – he stays on my top ten for now
Frac Daddy
I’m so glad I stayed with this colt. I loved him at Churchill last year and Kenny McPeek has been carefully preparing for his 3-year-old campaign. He will improve again when he returns to his favorite track – Churchill Downs.
Overanalyze
I’ve been waiting for this horse to show up again and he did in a big way at the Arkansas Derby. A beautiful colt who is agile and a quick turn of foot.
Goldencents
It was a fabulous win in the Santa Anita Derby but his stride was shortening in the last 16th – not sure he can stay.
Flashback is off list and the Derby trail with a knee chip. Hear the Ghost is also off the Derby trail with injury. Finally, Shanghai Bobby is off my list and the Derby Trail.
Kentucky Oaks Top 10
Unlimited Budget
She’s like auto pilot set at a very high cruising speed. A very efficient mover who just clicks off the fractions. Blew away the field in the Rachel Alexandra Stake. Was awesome again in the Fairgrounds Oaks.
Midnight Lucky
She is a freak! Two jaw dropping performances – most recently in the Sunland Oaks where she set a track record in a hand gallop- stay healthy – very special filly. Second in ranking only due to her lack of experience.
Kauai Katie
A beautiful filly with a lot of expression. Not sure she wants to go two turns but I want to see more.
Dreaming of Julia
So much class and she shows up every time ready to do battle – can’t wait to see her train at Churchill.
Rose to Gold
She’s little and tough. Ears pinned for the whole trip. NO one was going by her in the Honeybee. A red head on a rampage – love it! But if she’s not in the mood on Oaks Day … red heads can refuse to run too!
Blonde Fog
This is another filly who needs to learn to relax up front if she is to be able to carry that speed all the way to the wire. She doesn’t have a lot of experience. Blinkers are not very severe, he may even cut back to smaller cups to get her to relax.
Fiftyshadesofhay
With all the speed in the race, this filly could close.
Beholder
Mandella has gotten her to relax at home but I’m still concerned about her shipping and being able to relax. Ulcers due to nervousness and fretting is a chronic management issue for the trainer. She really needs the trip in the Oaks – no traffic.
Pure Fun
Drops a bit on my top ten but I still love this filly and think her preferred surface is dirt. Kenny McPeek will have her ready
Emolient
Incredible romp in the Ashland – makes my list but think she may prefer polytrack or turf – may have helped her be so impressive. With other speedy fillies in Oaks she may not get the lead so easily.
Broken Spell is off my list and maybe off Oaks trail with another poor performance in Ashland
Derby Experiences' Top 10 Contenders: Updated 4/9/13
Derby Experiences will be posting our Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks Insider's Top 10 Contenders leading up to the races in May. In Kentucky, Thoroughbred racing is a way of life and Loren Hebel-Osborne has made her life-long passion a career.
Loren has updated her Top 10 Contenders following this weekend's Kentucky Derby Championship Series Races and explains why she thinks these horses will be in the running at Churchill Downs®.
Kentucky Derby Top 10
Itsmyluckyday
I’m not getting off him yet – still my favorite. I think he needed the race in the Florida Derby. Pressure is off a bit now for Derby which is good for smaller stable to handle.
Orb
Jaw dropping, gutty performance in the Florida Derby. This is a race horse and veteran trainer Shug McCaughey looks to finally have his shot at the roses!
MyLute
Very impressive performance in the Louisiana Derby. Broke badly at the start but recovered gamely to almost win. He might be blossoming at the right time and his sire is hot, hot, hot! Training like a monster at Churchill!
Revolutionary
This is one gutty race horse. Didn’t like the way he jogged back with the pony after the race (might be a problem there) but if he makes it to the Derby – he will be tough!
Verrazano
I’m the first to admit that I was wrong about this horse! He looked like he was having a blast – ears forward after break and extended stride when horses approached. Race time was slow but if he gets the trip in the Derby – he will wear roses.
Oxbow
I absolutely LOVE this horse. I don’t know if he is a top, top horse yet but his heart is bigger than his body – he is a warrior and loves it!
Vyjack
I always have a special spot for a gelding. This guy has done nothing but win – tough spot next in Wood Memorial.
Frac Daddy
Has the pedigree and I’m sticking with a local angle here - loves Churchill, has a win at Churchill. Kenny McPeek is a horseman with a great eye for talent.
Uncaptured
While he didn’t win, his return to run in the Spiral was impressive. Probably needed that race to get fit perfection.
Goldencents
It was a fabulous win in the Santa Anita Derby but his stride was shortening in the last 16th – not sure he can stay.
Flashback is off list and the Derby trail with a knee chip. Hear the Ghost is also off the Derby trail with injury. Finally, Shanghai Bobby is off my list and the Derby Trail.
Kentucky Oaks Top 10
Unlimited Budget
She’s like auto pilot set at a very high cruising speed. A very efficient mover who just clicks off the fractions. Blew away the field in the Rachel Alexandra Stake. Was awesome again in the Fairgrounds Oaks.
Midnight Lucky
She is a freak! Two jaw dropping performances – most recently in the Sunland Oaks where she set a track record in a hand gallop- stay healthy – very special filly. Second in ranking only due to her lack of experience.
Kauai Katie
A beautiful filly with a lot of expression. Not sure she wants to go two turns but I want to see more.
Dreaming of Julia
So much class and she shows up every time ready to do battle – can’t wait to see her train at Churchill.
Rose to Gold
She’s little and tough. Ears pinned for the whole trip. NO one was going by her in the Honeybee. A red head on a rampage – love it! But if she’s not in the mood on Oaks Day … red heads can refuse to run too!
Blonde Fog
This is another filly who needs to learn to relax up front if she is to be able to carry that speed all the way to the wire. She doesn’t have a lot of experience. Blinkers are not very severe, he may even cut back to smaller cups to get her to relax.
Fiftyshadesofhay
With all the speed in the race, this filly could close.
Beholder
Mandella has gotten her to relax at home but I’m still concerned about her shipping and being able to relax. Ulcers due to nervousness and fretting is a chronic management issue for the trainer. She really needs the trip in the Oaks – no traffic.
Pure Fun
Drops a bit on my top ten but I still love this filly and think her preferred surface is dirt. Kenny McPeek will have her ready
Emolient
Incredible romp in the Ashland – makes my list but think she may prefer polytrack or turf – may have helped her be so impressive. With other speedy fillies in Oaks she may not get the lead so easily.
Broken Spell is off my list and maybe off Oaks trail with another poor performance in Ashland
Derby Experiences' Top 10 Contenders
Derby Experiences will be posting our Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks Insider's Top 10 Contenders leading up to the races in May. In Kentucky, Thoroughbred racing is a way of life and Loren Hebel-Osborne has made her life-long passion a career. Loren has updated her Top 10 Contenders following this weekend's Kentucky Derby Championship Series Races and explains why she thinks these horses will be in the running at Churchill Downs®.
Kentucky Derby Top 10
Itsmyluckyday
I’m not getting off him yet – I think he needed the race in the Florida Derby.
Orb
Jaw dropping, gutty performance in the Florida Derby. This is a race horse and veteran trainer Shug McCaughey looks to finally have his shot at the roses!
Vyjack
I always have a special spot for a gelding. This guy has done nothing but win – tough spot next in Wood Memorial.
Revolutionary
This is one gutty race horse. Didn’t like the way he jogged back with the pony after the race (might be a problem there) but if he makes it to the Derby – he will be tough!
Flashback
Despite his defeat in the San Felipe, I will keep this horse in a top spot – he finished gamely. If Baffert can get him to relax and conserve energy he might be able to stay the distance.
Oxbow
I absolutely LOVE this horse. I don’t know if he is a top, top horse yet but his heart is bigger than his body – he is a warrior and loves it!
MyLute
Very impressive performance in the Louisiana Derby. Broke badly at the start but recovered gamely to almost win. He might be blossoming at the right time and his sire is hot, hot, hot!
Frac Daddy
Has the pedigree and I’m sticking with a local angle here - loves Churchill, has a win at Churchill. Kenny McPeek is a horseman with a great eye for talent.
Uncaptured
While he didn’t win, his return to run in the Spiral was impressive. Probably needed that race to get fit perfection.
Goldencents
Not ready to toss him out of my top ten but he was soundly beaten in San Felipe - I’m hoping it was a bad day. Looked a little too hot in the post parade and too fresh.
Verrazano I just don’t think he’s tough enough – he has to convince me this weekend in the Wood. Super Ninety Nine off my top 10 – off track carried him for the distance and I don’t think he wants to go any further than 1 mile. Shanghai Bobby is off the Derby Trail.
Kentucky Oaks Top 10
Unlimited Budget
She’s like auto pilot set at a very high cruising speed. A very efficient mover who just clicks off the fractions. Blew away the field in the Rachel Alexandra Stake. Was awesome again in the Fairgrounds Oaks.
Midnight Lucky
She is a freak! Two jaw dropping performances – most recently in the Sunland Oaks where she set a track record in a hand gallop- stay healthy – very special filly. Second in ranking only due to her lack of experience.
Kauai Katie
A beautiful filly with a lot of expression. Not sure she wants to go two turns but I want to see more.
Dreaming of Julia
She’s moves out of my number one spot but not too far. She probably needed the race and I’m giving her another chance – so much class and she shows up every time.
Rose to Gold
She’s little and tough. Ears pinned for the whole trip. NO one was going by her in the Honeybee. A red head on a rampage – love it! But if she’s not in the mood on Oaks Day … red heads can refuse to run too!
Blonde Fog
This is another filly who needs to learn to relax up front if she is to be able to carry that speed all the way to the wire. She doesn’t have a lot of experience. Blinkers are not very severe, he may even cut back to smaller cups to get her to relax.
Fiftyshadesofhay
This filly’s has a high head carriage and a real presence – looks like a colt. She was able to relax on the lead but he ears we frantic. I wouldn’t be surprise if Bob adds blinkers or a shadow roll.
Beholder
Ultra impressive in Las Virgenes. Mandella has gotten her to relax at home but I’m still concerned about her shipping and being able to relax. Ulcers due to nervousness and fretting is a chronic management issue for the trainer.
Pure Fun
Drops a bit on my top ten but I still love this filly and think her preferred surface is dirt. Kenny McPeek will have her ready
Broken Spell
She stays but just barely. I didn’t like her effort in the Spiral Stakes but will give her a pass because of the polytrack. Lukas is especially good with the fillies – I’m holding out hope he gets her back to her better form.
Executivepriviledge moves off the list as Baffert reports she will not run in Oaks. Has had quarter cracks and won’t be ready.
Derby Experiences' Top 10 Derby Contenders
Derby Experiences will be posting our Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks Insider's Top 10 Contenders leading up to the races in May. In Kentucky, Thoroughbred racing is a way of life and Loren Hebel-Osborne has made her life-long passion a career. Loren has updated her Top 10 Contenders following this weekend's Kentucky Derby Championship Series Races and explains why she thinks these horses will be in the running at Churchill Downs®.
Kentucky Derby Top 10
Itsmyluckyday
I’m not getting off him yet – still obsessed with him and can’t wait for this weekend’s big test in the Florida Derby.
Shanghai Bobby
He’s battled tested and he keeps my respect. Florida Derby is next and we will see how he fairs against the best!
Orb
Florida Derby is next and I expect him to be right in the mix with my other top two.
Revolutionary
Louisiana Derby is next and we will see if he maintains his gutty will to win.
Flashback
Despite his defeat in the San Felipe, I will keep this horse in a top spot – he finished gamely. If Baffert can get him to relax and conserve energy he might be able to stay the distance.
Oxbow
I absolutely LOVE this horse. I don’t know if he is a top, top horse yet but his heart is bigger than his body – he is a warrior and loves it!
Frac Daddy
Has the pedigree and I’m sticking with a local angle here - loves Churchill, has a win at Churchill. Kenny McPeek is a horseman with a great eye for talent..
Uncaptured
While he didn’t win, his return to run in the Spiral was impressive. Probably needed that race to get fit perfection.
Goldencents
Not ready to toss him out of my top ten but he was soundly beaten in San Felipe - I’m hoping it was a bad day. Looked a little too hot in the post parade and too fresh.
Verrazano moves off my top 10 – I just don’t think he’s tough enough. Super Ninety Nine moves off my top 10 – off track carried him for the distance and I don’t think he wants to go any further than 1 mile
For more information on Loren, you can visit our Derby Experts page. If you would like to attend the 139th Kentucky Derby, visit our website. Be there to experience "the most exciting two minutes in sports," live!
Derby Experiences will be posting our Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks Insider's Top 10 Contenders leading up to the races in May. In Kentucky, Thoroughbred racing is a way of life and Loren Hebel-Osborne has made her life-long passion a career. Loren has updated her Top 10 Contenders following this weekend's Kentucky Derby Championship Series Races and explains why she thinks these horses will be in the running at Churchill Downs®.
Kentucky Derby Top 10
Itsmyluckyday
I’m obsessed with this horse! I have watched replays and studied photos of him and he looks to be a tremendous talent that absolutely loves this game. A very happy horse! Ears are forward as soon as he passes rivals but very focused in post parade.
Shanghai Bobby
He stays at the top of my list because I really can’t see that he’s done anything wrong. He had a layoff excuse for his loss to Itsmyluckyday. He’s fast and he’s experienced.
Verrazano
Very fast horse but not tested – he could move up or down after we see him run against Stakes company.
Super Ninety Nine
The horse wastes zero energy in the way he moves. He has a very low center of gravity, low head carriage to make him aerodynamic and super fast. Very impressive win in the Southwest.
Revolutionary
He gets my respect because he finds a way to win – overcame a horrible trip in the Withers, wins and gallops out with his ears forward.
Goldencents
Experience gets this horse a top vote – very gritty in the last 1/8th in every start.
Flashback
Another fast horse but I would like to see him more relaxed when he’s out in front. Looks a bit like he’s speeding from the cops and may pull over if the sirens come on.
Frac Daddy
Has the pedigree and I’m sticking with a local angle here - loves Churchill, has a win at Churchill and Kenny McPeek cut his teeth at Churchill – a horseman with a great eye for talent.
Oxbow
Not a great performance in the Risen Star but he stays on my list for one major reason – D Wayne Lukas – no one knows how to coach like him for the Derby – never count him out.
Orb
Very impressive win at Gulfstream in the Fountain of Youth. Trainer is very old school and typically doesn’t even enter prep races unless he thinks he’s competitive. Sug likes him – I like him!
Kentucky Oaks Top 10
Unlimited Budget
She’s like auto pilot set at a very high cruising speed. A very efficient mover who just clicks off the fractions. Blew away the field at the Fairgrounds in the Rachel Alexandra Stake.
Executivepriviledge
Reminds me of another Bob Baffert star SilverbulletDay.
Kauai Katie
A beautiful filly with a lot of expression. Not sure she wants to go two turns but I want to see more.
Dreaming of Julia
She’s moves out of my number one spot but not too far. She probably needed the race and I’m giving her another chance – so much class and she shows up every time.
Pure Fun
If all the speed falls apart, this filly will mow them down. Kenny has figured her out and she keeps getting better.
Blonde Fog
This is another filly who needs to learn to relax up front if she is to be able to carry that speed all the way to the wire. She doesn’t have a lot of experience. Blinkers are not very severe, he may even cut back to smaller cups to get her to relax.
Fiftyshadesofhay
This filly’s has a high head carriage and a real presence – looks like a colt. She was able to relax on the lead but he ears we frantic. I wouldn’t be surprise if Bob adds blinkers or a shadow roll.
Beholder
I loved her for the Breeders’ Cup juvenile and I’m sticking with her.
Sister Ginger
Very consistent filly who has shown she can run on anything.
Broken Spell
Again, this filly gets a top ten vote because of her trainer. She has shown that she can beat some of the best on her best day. If Wayne gets her in sync to peak on Oaks Day – watch out.
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