Sierra Leone, an impressive colt acquired for a staggering $2.3 million, triumphed in the prestigious $1 million Blue Grass Stakes (G1) with style, solidifying his position as a formidable contender for the upcoming 150th Kentucky Derby on May 4. A horse trained by Chad Brown is set to compete in the prestigious Kentucky Derby, as captured in a photo taken at Keeneland.
Sierra Leone's victory in the 100th edition of the prestigious $1 million Toyota Blue Grass (G1) race was not just a win but a strategic triumph. With a daring manoeuvre on the outside at the final stretch, Sierra Leone surged ahead and claimed a 1½-length victory, crossing the finish line before the sixteenth pole.
Following its triumphant win, the outstanding young horse secured a spot in the prestigious 150th Kentucky Derby (G1) Presented by Woodford Reserve at Churchill Downs on May 4.
On the Toyota Blue Grass Day, it was a witness to history, with numerous wagering records being shattered at Keeneland. The total handle for the 11-race program reached an impressive $29,261,346, surpassing the previous record of $28,137,728 set in 2022. The wagering amount for the Toyota Blue Grass single-race victory also exceeded the previous record set in 2019. The Pick 5, which concluded with the Toyota Blue Grass, amassed an impressive $1,696,981, surpassing the previous 2022 record of $1,539,098.