BANNED TOPS VIRGINIA DERBY CAST

BANNED TOPS VIRGINIA DERBY CAST

The Tom Proctor-trained Banned has dusted two graded fields in succession and looms as the one to beat in the $600,000 Virginia Derby (G2) at Colonial Downs on Saturday. The ultra-talented son of Kitten’s Joy has good tactical speed to go with a lethal turn of foot, and he’ll be tough with his best under Leparoux.

Crimson China has flashed good ability since arriving in the U. S. and could be the main threat to the favorite in this one. The Graham Motion charge rallied for a win in the Lamplighter S. at Monmouth most recently and should be a big late factor in here. Stakes winner and bluegrass S. (G1) third King Congie was last seen finishing seventh in the Preakness S. (G1) and returns to his best surface for this one.

Dual Grade 3 victor Air Support, seven-length Hill Prince S. (G3) winner Street Game, La Puente S. winner Surrey Star and the dangerous Casino Host, add to the depth of this event.

Also at Colonial are the $150,000 Virginia Oaks (G3), $50,000 Chenery S., $500,000 Tippett S. and the $50,000 Kitten’s Joy S. Grade 3 winner Dynamic Holiday, who was won four in a row, the rapidly improving Marion Ravenwood, Edgewood S. victress Diva Ash and Ashland s. (G1) runner-up Wyomia, are among the likely main players for the Oaks.