Who Will Be The Pace Setter In The Derby?

[Travis Stone]

Originally Posted by CSC

From a discussion standpoint, is it your belief his race on DWC day was solely speed bias aided?

Regal Ransom has ability. Kiaran McLaughlin said last summer he was the best 2-year-old in his barn. That said, last time out I think he was able to take advantage of circumstances which enabled him to outrun his ability. I do not think on a fair track he wins, much less with an additional furlong and likely pace competition. I could be wrong, but not wrong enough to lose long-term playing a horse like him.

Originally Posted by CSC

Also where do you place Desert Party?

I wasn't crazy about him as a 2-year-old, I thought he was over-hyped, overrated and his numbers weren't exactly big. But as a 3-year-old he's developed and his UAE Derby was exceptionally strong. I respect him, considering him a win candidate, but not the most likely winner.