Gun Runner tours half-mile at Churchill

Kentucky Derby (G1) contender Gun Runner got back to work Monday for the first time since his victory in the March 26 Louisiana Derby (G2).

Now back at Churchill Downs after his productive winter at Fair Grounds, the Steve Asmussen trainee covered a half-mile in :50.60 over a fast main track. Regular rider Florent Geroux was aboard for the move.

Gun Runner will bring a four-for-five record into the May 7 Kentucky Derby, his only loss coming in the Kentucky Jockey Club (G2) at Churchill last November. But the well-bred son of Candy Ride captured his career debut beneath the Twin Spires, and turned the Risen Star (G2)/Louisiana Derby double in New Orleans.

Japan-based UAE Derby (G2) hero Lani, who just arrived Sunday, went out to stretch his legs Monday morning.

Two of Asmussen's promising sophomores at Oaklawn Park also posted Monday moves, with Creator (inside) and Madtap clocking five furlongs in company in 1:00.60. Creator and Madtap were most recently third and 12th, respectively, in the March 19 Rebel (G2), the local prep for the April 16 Arkansas Derby (G1).

All photos courtesy Coady Photography.