In the latest National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) poll, Citizen Bull has solidified its position as the leading 3-year-old horse. Trained by Bob Baffert, Citizen Bull garnered an impressive 276 points and received 24 first-place votes following a Grade 3 Robert B. Lewis victory on Saturday. This win secures his place in the starting lineup for the Kentucky Derby 2025. Barnes, another Baffert trainee, remains in second place with 226 points and two first-place votes. The top 10 also saw the entry of Burnham Square and Captain Cook after their respective wins in the Holy Bull (G3) and Withers races.
Trainer Bob Baffert's stable is once again in the spotlight with Citizen Bull's exceptional performance. Following a decisive win in the Grade 3 Robert B. Lewis, this young champion has earned significant recognition and is now seen as one of the most promising contenders for the upcoming Kentucky Derby. The competition remains fierce, however, with Barnes holding steady in second place. Both horses have been under Baffert's guidance, showcasing the trainer's expertise in developing top-tier racehorses. In addition to these two, Burnham Square and Captain Cook have made their mark by joining the top 10 rankings after recent victories. Burnham Square triumphed in the Holy Bull (G3), while Captain Cook won the Withers, demonstrating the depth of talent within the 3-year-old category.
The inclusion of Burnham Square and Captain Cook in the top 10 highlights the dynamic nature of the 3-year-old division. Burnham Square, trained by Ian Wilkes, and Captain Cook, under Rick Dutrow's tutelage, have both demonstrated remarkable performances. These newcomers bring fresh competition to the leaderboard, adding excitement to the upcoming racing season. Their success suggests that the 2025 Triple Crown series will be highly competitive, with multiple strong contenders vying for top honors.
As the racing season progresses, all eyes are on Citizen Bull and the other top contenders. The latest NTRA poll reflects not only the current standings but also sets the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating year in thoroughbred racing. The achievements of these young horses underscore the importance of consistent performance and strategic training, key factors that will determine the ultimate champions of the 2025 racing calendar.