The 2015 American Derby is a the Chicago prep for the Secretariat Stakes. This year’s field drew a mix of developing horses and horses with proven turf form.
The Skinny:
Crittenden Picked up a nice win in the Hoosier state last out, overall has 3 wins but speed figures put him about 2 lengths behind the top contenders. Still some upside and running style may benefit from one run as a deeper closer.
Slope has a nice pedigree but the trainer is 2 for 27 at Arlington Park this meet. Poor current form and seems unlikely to turn it around with this solid group of horses.
Raagheb makes his first turf start and has the pedigree on both sides to like the lawn. Figures to sig a good trip and faced older horses in his last race. Maiden win at Oaklawn was impressive and a repeat of that effort puts him in the mix. Can stalk and speed figures put him in the mix.
Nun the Less is one of the locally based horses and he has done little wrong. Faced a quality group of runners in last race and ran evenly in the American Turf Handicap which was a strong race. Capable of being on the board at giant price.
King of New York has impressed in most recent victory and seems to be on the improve. Best surface is the lawn and putting it all together for a fall campaign. Strong Contender. Fits on form, speed and class. Could be the class of the race having faced several impressive maiden winners in his career.
World Approval is the most likely favorite. Versatile running style can keep him close to the pace. Has enough speed to out-kick the deep closers. Lezcano rides and trainer is doing well on the law and in July. Expecting a top effort.
Firespike prefers the turf and has a 100 speed figure to cycle back to from 2 races back. Has alternated strong efforts with subpar performances. Capable of winning but needs a perfect trip. Best chance is to fire late when a few of these may have done their best running.
The Selection:
Raagheb is first time turf with a pedigree for the lawn on both sides. Should like the 9 furlongs and running style suits that of a turf runner. Capable of firing a big race and the price will be double digits. Must use in exotic bets. World Approval is logical and 2nd choice.