Lonnie Briley has never even had a graded stakes horse. However, when Coal Battle won the Rebel at Oaklawn Park, Briley and his small Arkansas-based stable were thrown into the spotlight,  and the race to Kentucky ensued. 

Lonnie Briley might be the most humble, likable trainer I’ve ever seen interviewed. He is genuinely thankful to be here, and it shows. Add to that the demeanor of his Kentucky Derby contender and you have a sure fan favorite. 

 

Coal Battle is a very intelligent horse. He misses nothing. He takes it all in…at his own pace. And he nods to the crowd as if to say, “I see you, and I won’t let you down.”

 

When he goes to the track in the mornings he makes at least two stops to take in all his surroundings. Once he’s on the track, Coal Battle likes to watch a few of the other horses go by before he starts his work or gallop. Horse racing aficionados agree this is the hallmark of a horse wise beyond his years. He is a perfect gate horse, and reportedly gets along well with everyone. 

 

I am thrilled to see that Briley stayed with Vargas,  Coal Battle’s regular jockey, and did not spin him for some high-profile name who had never ridden him. The horse tries hard and leaves it all on the track in every race, so if he finishes up the track it will not be for lack of preparation or heart. 

 

Coal Battle worked a modest three furlongs in :37 and change this morning. He will walk and gallop up to Saturday. 

 

After his Rebel win at Oaklawn Park, Coal Battle regressed in the Arkansas Derby. Briley thought he might have been a work short for that effort and is more pleased with his training regimen up to the Kentucky Derby. However, because he did back up at a mile and an eighth, many experts and handicappers believe he cannot get the grueling mile and a quarter required of him on Saturday. Frankly. I am not sure Briley, himself, believes the horse is suited for this distance. 

 

I have fallen head over heels in love with this horse. Not since War of Will have I had a Kentucky Derby contender catch my attention this way. I am praying for a safe trip on Saturday and for him to come back sound. I will be cheering loudly for that. And, if he hits the board or wins…that’s just icing on the cake.