With all the questions surrounding Kentucky Derby 134, from the group’s generic performances figures, to the inexperience factor, the prep schedule factor and the synthetic track factor, perhaps the best way to solve the puzzle is through the prism of its most talented horse, Big Brown . And here’s what...

The New York Times seems to have caught Derby Fever in a big way. Not only did they have a feature article on Big Brown (more on that below), they've launched The Rail -- a blog headed by Joe Drape with a variety of interesting contributors (and some nice TBA links on their blogroll - thanks, guys...

BIG BROWN (Boundary), the undefeated winner of the Florida Derby (G1), worked five furlongs in 1:00 3/5 on a fast track at Palm Meadows on Friday. The Richard Dutrow-trained colt is a leading contender for the 134th running of the Kentucky Derby (G1) on May 3 at Churchill Downs. read more

Saturday's Arkansas Derby (G2) didn't feature the strongest field, but at least GAYEGO (Gilded Time) established himself as a legitimate Kentucky Derby (G1) contender while winning an exciting contest. The Blue Grass S. read more

Saturday featured a whirlwind of three key prep races. COLONEL JOHN (Tiznow) lived up to expectations in the Santa Anita Derby (G1), solidifying his status as a top Kentucky Derby (G1) contender with a late-running victory. read more

The Wood Memorial was billed as the race in which the real War Pass would return, and I believe he did. Challenged for the lead by Inner Light ( Court Vision's rabbit), he ran fast early fractions but gamely hung on for second (in ever slower fractions) at what looked like an uncomfortable distance...

Things are starting to shape for the Kentucky Derby. Here is one man's Top 7...( read more )

The only thing made clear by three important, nine-furlong Kentucky Derby preps run on Saturday is that the prevailing muddle will remain in place until the issue is settled or on May 3. Of the three races, the Wood Memorial was easily the most critical. In defeat, War Pass dispelled the memory of his...

The world's best three year old is...not Big Brown (gasp!) The latest World Thoroughbred Rankings have placed Australia's Weekend Hussler at the top of his age group; his 122 point ranking (tying for 8th in the world overall) equals that of Hard Spun and world-beaters like Ramonta and Viva Pataca...

Big Brown better be built to beat the best. This weekend I have seven horses racing from my virtual stable at www.roadtotheroses.com. It is the last chance for a few of my horses to make a convincing move for the Kentucky Derby presented by Yum Brands! Show me the money (so they qualify)....( read more...