Get to Know the Early Favorites and Top Contenders for the 2024 Kentucky Derby

The Kentucky Derby is like the Super Bowl of horse racing. It’s massive, loud, and packed with excitement. And with the 2024 edition just around the corner, it’s time to get acquainted with the contenders who will be racing for glory at Churchill Downs.

So, grab your binoculars and saddle up for an unforgettable ride as we introduce you to the early favorites and top contenders for the 2024 Kentucky Derby.

Sierra Leone

On February 17, 2024, Sierra Leone showed strength at the Fair Grounds Race Course. This dark brown colt charged ahead and won the Grade II Risen Star Stakes while wearing blinkers for the first time. It was only his second win in three races, but it earned him a spot in the Kentucky Derby.

It shows that trainer Chad Brown’s decision to use blinkers paid off, helping Sierra Leone focus and stay ahead of the pack. Jockey Tyler Gaffalione felt Sierra Leone’s power as he rode him to victory. Despite starting at the back, Sierra Leone made a bold move on the final stretch, quickly overtaking his rivals.

The win was a confidence boost for Sierra Leone’s team, who now have their sights set on the Blue Grass Stakes at Keeneland. With his impressive performance, Sierra Leone has become one of the top picks for ky derby, showing that he’s a horse to watch in the world of racing.

Dornoch

Meet Dornoch, a spirited 3-year-old colt making waves in the racing world. Born from the distinguished lineage of Good Magic and Puca, Dornoch has quickly proven himself as a contender to watch. Trained by Danny Gargan, Dornoch’s journey to success is marked by notable victories, including a thrilling win in the Grade 2 Remsen Stakes.

Dornoch’s development reflects Gargan’s patient approach to training, which shows a balance of skill and resilience. As Dornoch gears up for his final Derby prep, the excitement mounts.

With options like the Florida Derby or the Blue Grass at Keeneland on the horizon, Dornoch’s potential knows no bounds. As the full brother of Mage, the 2023 Kentucky Derby champion, Dornoch carries a legacy of greatness and is poised to carve his path to glory on the track.

Fierceness

Meet Fierceness, a 3-year-old colt known for his perseverance on the racetrack. Sired by City of Light and trained by Todd A. Pletcher, Fierceness has shown both highs and lows in his racing career.

One of the highlights of Fierceness’s career came in the 2023 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, where he showcased his undeniable talent by clinching the first-place finish. However, not every race has been smooth sailing for this spirited colt. Disappointment struck in the 2024 Holy Bull Stakes (G3), where he finished third after encountering a subpar trip.

Despite setbacks, Fierceness has continued to impress in his morning training sessions. His recent breeze with Tuscan Sky, where he clocked an impressive time of 1:00.99 for five furlongs, demonstrated his unwavering determination and potential for greatness.

As he gears up for the upcoming Florida Derby (G1) at Gulfstream Park, hopes are high for Fierceness to return to his Breeders’ Cup Juvenile-winning form and reclaim his spot among the top contenders for the Kentucky Derby.

Track Phantom

In horse racing, consistency matters, and Track Phantom embodies this quality with every race. Trained by the skilled Steven M. Asmussen, this 3-year-old colt has showcased his talent and determination throughout the Derby prep season.

Track Phantom has consistently delivered top performances from his maiden victory at Churchill Downs to impressive wins in the Gun Runner Stakes and the Lecomte Stakes at Fair Grounds. Even in defeat, such as his close second in the Risen Star Stakes, he has demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest level.

Track Phantom remains a strong candidate for victory as the Kentucky Derby draws closer. With his speed and tenacity, he has already secured 55 qualifying points for the Derby and continues to impress with each outing.

With jockey Joel Rosario’s guidance and trainer Steve Asmussen’s expertise, Track Phantom is poised to impact the road to Churchill Downs significantly.

Timberlake

Timberlake, the three-year-old colt making waves in horse racing, solidified his place in the Kentucky Derby with a commanding victory in the Grade 2 Rebel Stakes at Oaklawn Park. Sired by Into Mischief and out of Pin Up, Timberlake showcased his talent and determination in the $1.25 million race, securing 50 points toward the Run for the Roses eligibility.

Under the skillful guidance of jockey Cristian Torres, Timberlake settled into fifth position early on, biding his time behind the leaders. With a burst of speed around the turn, he surged ahead at the top of the stretch, crossing the finish line two lengths ahead of his closest competitor, Common Defense.

Trainer Brad H. Cox, watching from Saudi Arabia, where he had saddled another horse earlier in the day, praised Timberlake’s performance, noting his ability to relax and finish strongly despite the layoff. With 66 qualifying points to his name, Timberlake has earned his place among the top contenders for the Kentucky Derby, drawing attention from racing enthusiasts and experts alike.

Final Thoughts

Follow these early favorites closely as they prepare for the biggest race of their careers at Churchill Downs. Watch their performances in the upcoming prep races, and join the excitement as the road to the Kentucky Derby unfolds.