Saturday's 11th race (6:20PM ET) from Gulfstream Park is the Grade 1 Florida Derby for 3yo's traveling a mile and an eighth on the main track.
#1 Soaring Empire (20-1) has been on my radar screen for quite some time. He was an
honorable mention member on my first
Derby Top 10 post last Nov. The first thing that catches the eye is an Empire Maker-A.P. Indy colt scored right out of the box at 5.5f, and he pulled off that feat after breaking 10th at Monmouth. Nothing wrong with flat mile graded placing 2nd time out, and he returned with a professional extended sprint win in local prep for this. Seemingly the longer the better for this one, and the promising, lightly raced sort get pace to chase and should offer nice value. I have never been a fan of
#7 Rule (5-2), but he's a definite prominent throughout threat in this spot. He sure has a nose for the wire, and connections say he does not need the lead to win. All four wins wire to wire, and he failed to get early lead in both losses. Has plenty of graded earnings for Derby, so this seems like a great opportunity to see if he can pass horses. Who doesn't have a soft spot for Barbaro's baby bro #2 Lentenor (6-1)? Turf speed ratings on the rise, but his best fig still ranks 11th and last in this heat. Cannot play him here. #11 Radiohead (3-1) exits sharp flat mile tally, but he owns a sprint oriented pedigree and must work out a trip from disadvantageous post. Probable underlay. #9 Miner's Reserve (6-1) earned quality speed rating in flat mile maiden win. Tough spot to try route of ground in only 3rd career outing and first against winners. One to watch for down the road.
The Plays: $16 to win, $24 to place #1, $5 Exacta Box 1-7 ($10)
Check out the 2010
Kentucky
Derby Power Rankings at
Horse
Racing Nation.