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Kentucky Derby Photos
Using exactly the same tactics, jockey John Velasquez took both the 2021 Kentucky Oaks and Derby on Friday and Saturday. In hindsight it was genius. He simply got the jump on the field, took the lead, and never looked back. Trainers and jockeys alike will tell you with large fields, the race can be won or lost with the gate break. Just ask the connections of Rock Your World.
Malathaat was the post-time favorite in the Oaks, so that win was no surprise. However, Medina Spirit checked none of the boxes for the potential Kentucky Derby winner, except for his Hall of Fame trainer and jockey. A $1,000 yearling purchase by the obscure sire Prontico, Medina Spirit became “the little engine that could” and gave us another Cinderella sports story for the ages.
Medina Spirit gave trainer Bob Baffert his seventh Kentucky Derby victory, a record for the race’s 147-year history. Baffert seemed as surprised as anyone, and credited his friend, Bill Belichick, for bringing him luck in the race. In an NBC interview aired on Satuday, the pair talked about competing at the highest level of football and horseracing. They agreed that the expectations from both owners and fans are high and the pressure is enormous. Belichick advised Baffert to “block out the noise.” Apparently he did.
The Oaks/Derby double for jockey John Velasquez was not only financially lucrative, but also put him at the top of the jockeys’ list for mounts this season. No doubt he will ride Medina Spirit back in the Preakness, right? That could get interesting if Pletcher decides to enter the Oaks winner. Malathaat is under consideration to take on the boys at some point. Oh, to be Velasquez’s agent!! What a great problem to have!
The contenders’ list for Preakness on May 16th is taking shape and looks to be a full field. Along with Derby winner Medina Spirit, horses such as Concert Tour and Caddo River, who skipped the Derby, are listed as probables. It should be a very exciting and competitive race! Good luck and a safe trip to all!!
