Kentucky Derby Context: Stark Contrast

Tue Apr 21 2026James Scully

A multiple turf stakes winner and runner-up in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf (G1), Stark Contrast secured a spot in the Kentucky Derby field, finishing second in the Jeff Ruby Steaks (G3) on Turfway Park’s synthetic track.
2026 Kentucky Derby Brisnet Speed Rating Report

Mon Apr 20 2026James Scully

The 2026 Kentucky Derby Brisnet Speed Rating Report analyzes the numbers earned by contestants in a projected 20-horse field at Churchill Downs.
Kentucky Derby International Scouting Report: Six Speed

Mon Apr 20 2026Kellie Reilly

Dubai-based Six Speed was purchased privately by an American ownership group before he jumped on the Euro/Mideast Road, and he repaid their investment.
Kentucky Derby pedigree profile: Stark Contrast

Mon Apr 20 2026J. Keeler Johnson

Does Stark Contrast have the pedigree to handle racing on dirt in the 2026 Kentucky Derby (G1)?
Kentucky Derby Context: Intrepido

Mon Apr 20 2026James Scully

A Grade 1-winning juvenile, Intrepido opened his three-year-old season with a close second in the Robert B. Lewis (G3) and will look to outrun projected long odds in the Kentucky Derby (G1).
Jason Beem Monday Morning Message feed
Monday Morning Message with Jason Beem Apr. 20, 2026

Mon Apr 20 2026Jason Beem

Jason discusses big showdown events in light of this past weekend's Oaklawn H. (G2).
Kentucky Derby Context: Albus

Sat Apr 18 2026James Scully

An improving three-year-old, Albus will look to keep stepping up in the Kentucky Derby (G1).
Kentucky Derby Context: Chip Honcho

Sat Apr 18 2026James Scully

Runner-up in the Risen Star (G2), Chip Honcho projects to show early speed if he makes the Kentucky Derby (G1) field.
Kentucky Derby Context: Ottinho

Thu Apr 16 2026James Scully

Runner-up in the Blue Grass (G1), Ottinho will seek to keep progressing by offering a strong late run in the Kentucky Derby.
Kentucky Derby Context: Commandment

Thu Apr 16 2026James Scully

A winner of four consecutive races, Commandment established himself as a major Kentucky Derby (G1) contender by narrowly winning the Florida Derby (G1) and Fountain of Youth (G2) over quality competition.
Kentucky Derby Context: Further Ado

Thu Apr 16 2026James Scully

A romping winner of the Blue Grass (G1), Further Ado will take some beating if he carries his form forward in the Kentucky Derby (G1).
Kentucky Derby Context: Renegade

Wed Apr 15 2026James Scully

A smashing four-length winner of the Arkansas Derby (G1), probable favorite Renegade rates as the horse to beat in the Kentucky Derby
Kentucky Derby Roundup: Trendsetter wins the Lexington

Wed Apr 15 2026J. Keeler Johnson

The 2026 Kentucky Derby (G1) is 17 days away. Catch up on the latest news and notes as the Road to the Kentucky Derby unfolds: