Mike Repole and Todd Pletcher are notable in horse racing. They are shaping another promising 2-year-old. It is a Breeders' Cup Juvenile winner for the Kentucky Derby. This year's focus is Fierceness, following last year's attention on Forte.
Fierceness recovered swiftly from the Juvenile, his third race. He is now in light training at Palm Beach Downs. This contrasts with Forte. He is targeting the Grade 3 Holy Bull at Gulfstream Park and the Florida Derby. These races lead to the Kentucky Derby. Pletcher appreciates Fierceness's freshness and health, noting the advantageous timing between races.
Last season, Forte needed more recovery after the Breeders' Cup. This changed his preparation and led to a condensed schedule. Forte won the Fountain of Youth and Florida Derby. But, he was withdrawn from the Kentucky Derby due to a hoof injury.
Fierceness was impressive in his debut at Saratoga. He stumbled in the Champagne Stakes, but then bounced back dominantly in the Juvenile. His trainer commends his temperament and training. This was highlighted by a fast workout at Palm Beach Downs.
Pletcher also reveals other Kentucky Derby prospects:
- Born Noble: A Constitution progeny bought for $725,000, won his debut at Gulfstream Park, though he needs quick maturity for the Derby.
- Khanate: Hightail's offspring, third in the Jerome at Aqueduct, will continue in New York preps.
- Locked: This Gun Runner son, the Breeders' Futurity winner, prepares for his three-year-old debut in the Sam F. Davis.
- Moonlight: A promising Audible colt targeting the Risen Star after a commanding maiden victory.
- Turn up the Trees: Liam's Map's son won his Gulfstream Park debut and will progress cautiously towards the Derby.
- Tuscan Sky: Vino Rosso's gray son won his first race at Aqueduct and is being prepped for more challenges.
Each horse is under Pletcher's guidance. They are navigating the road to the Kentucky Derby with careful plans. They are running strategic races.