Barbaro among another prospect for the Kentucky Derby 2012
The winner of the Kentucky Derby Future Wager 2006, Barbaro, is again lined up among a number of big names for the high-profile tournament’s 2012 edition, which is set to begin on May 2.
In 2006, the 9-year-old gelding was sent as the 19 to 1 favourite in Pool 1, 15 to 1 in Pool 2 and 9 to 1 in Pool 3. The dashing runner is trained by Michael Matz.
This time, another colt of the same trainer, Union Rags, is the 10 to 1 favourite for Pool 1 of the Derby.
Matz seems to be greatly optimistic that Union Rags will too earn him immense honour by bringing home the title. Before sending him for the mega event, he intends to run the colt in the Fountain of Youth Stakes by the end of this month.
While speaking to the media today, the champion trainer said, “Then hopefully in the Florida Derby. I like the timing of it all. That’ll be just two preps for us, while Barbaro had three. But Barbaro had run only twice as a 2-year-old, and Union Rags
ran four times last year. So I think we should be in pretty good shape with the scheduling.”
Foaled in March 2009, Union Rags started his career on July 12, 2011. The talented runner registered an outstanding hat-trick by winning first three races of his career.
Owned by Chadds Ford Stable, the black colt has won 3 out of 4 career races so far. His earnings at this point are £550,513.
All eyes are hinged on the novice runner. Most of the racing experts and analysts are convinced that he will accomplish well in the event.
On the other hand, Barbaro too seems to be in good form again. Owned by Lael Stable, the horse has five fabulous triumphs to his credit. From the beginning of his career in November 2005 to May 2006, he won all the races he ran. However, he pulled
out in his last contest on May 20, 2006.
Since last six years, the brilliant runner has been sidelined. The Derby 2012 is bringing massive challenges for him. However, he looks to be determined to cope with the situation.
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