—Mar 31— Little known trainer, Jonathan Thomas, who two years ago saddled just 18 starters, took on the “big boys” in the training game and emerged victorious when his charge, Catholic Boy, drew off to an easy two-and-a-quarter length win in the 67th running of the Grade 1 Florida Derby at Gulfstream Park.
Entering the race after two so-so races at Tampa Bay Downs, Catholic Boy was forwardly placed from the outset. Challenged early by the 3/5 race favorite, Audible, then later by the late-running Hofburg, Catholic Boy dug in gamely, out-finishing both.
Hofburg entered the race after two desultory efforts in the Mucho Macho Man Stakes and the Holy Bull Stakes at Gulfstream Park and a fourth place finish in the Grade 2 Tampa Bay Derby at Tampa. Sent to post at 9/1 odds, he was nonetheless the third choice in the race. Assuming he draws in, trainer Bill Mott indicated that Hofburg’s next start will be in the Kentucky Derby.
Despite losing by just a head for second, the biggest disappointment in the race was Todd Pletcher’s talented colt, Audible, whose lack of a closing kick raises some concerns. Audible was simply devastating in his prep for the race in the Holy Bull. He won that race by four-and-a-half lengths and looked to many like the Kentucky Derby favorite. No stranger to the Derby trail, Pletcher will no doubt attempt to get his horse back on track, though he is unlikely to race again before the Derby.
Promises Fulfilled finished fourth, two-and-a-half lengths behind Audible. Mississippi and Strike Power were fifth and last, respectively.
Catholic Boy, the 3/2 second choice, paid $5.10 to win.
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