The 151st Kentucky Derby is drawing closer, and the stakes are high as fourteen eager contenders prepare for Saturday's $250,000 Lecomte (G3) at Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots. With a total of 42 qualifying points up for grabs, this race marks a pivotal moment in the journey to the prestigious Kentucky Derby. Among the notable participants is Built, trained by Wayne Catalano, who has been performing exceptionally well since his impressive gate-to-wire victory in the Gun Runner. Meanwhile, Golden Afternoon, under the guidance of young trainer Nick Vaccarezza, will be making his debut on dirt, adding an intriguing element to the competition.

The Lecomte Stakes is not just a critical qualifier but also part of a larger racing event known as "Road to the Derby Day," featuring six other significant stakes races. These include the Fasig-Tipton Silverbulletday, offering points toward the Longines Kentucky Oaks, and several other graded stakes races that promise thrilling action throughout the day. The Lecomte itself serves as the grand finale of the 12-race program, with an average of 11.3 entries per field, setting the stage for an unforgettable afternoon of thoroughbred racing.

Built: Proven Performer Ready for Another Triumph

Trainer Wayne Catalano's Built has emerged as the morning line favorite with odds of 3-1, thanks to his remarkable performance in previous races. After a successful return from a long layoff, Catalano has ensured that Built remains in peak condition through strategic training sessions. Jockey Jareth Loveberry will once again partner with Built, starting from post 13. Despite the challenging position, Catalano expresses confidence in the horse's abilities, stating that even if it were the Kentucky Derby, they would be content with the draw. This combination of experience and preparation positions Built as a formidable competitor in the Lecomte.

Building on his recent success, Built's journey to the Lecomte has been carefully managed. Following a strong showing in the Gun Runner, where he secured a decisive win, Catalano has maintained a balanced approach to keep Built sharp without overexerting him. Regular light workouts have kept the horse in excellent shape while ensuring he remains relaxed and focused. Catalano emphasizes that Built's consistent appetite and enthusiastic training sessions indicate he is primed for another outstanding performance. As the race approaches, all eyes will be on this seasoned duo, hoping to see them replicate their earlier triumphs.

Golden Afternoon: A New Chapter Begins for a Promising Young Trainer

Nick Vaccarezza, a 25-year-old trainer taking over the reins from his father Carlo, brings an exciting new dynamic to the Lecomte with Golden Afternoon. This gelded son of Goldencents, who made waves with his debut win at Kentucky Downs and a commendable second-place finish in the Bourbon (G2), now faces the challenge of running on dirt for the first time. Vaccarezza believes that Golden Afternoon's adaptability and resilience make him a strong contender despite the change in surface. Starting from post 6 under jockey Axel Concepcion, Golden Afternoon aims to build momentum heading into future races.

Vaccarezza's decision to enter Golden Afternoon in the Lecomte was driven by a mix of intuition and strategic planning. After a promising start in turf races, the team decided to test Golden Afternoon on dirt, targeting a non-winners of two race initially. When those plans didn't materialize, Vaccarezza trusted his instincts and opted for the current opportunity. He explains that allowing Golden Afternoon to compete in a slightly less optimal condition could provide valuable experience and tighten him up for subsequent races. Vaccarezza's long-term vision includes leveraging Golden Afternoon's potential to achieve greater success. Having won 25% of their races last year in Kentucky, the Vaccarezza stable is ready to take the next step forward. Golden Afternoon represents not just a single horse but a symbol of the transition and growth within the stable, marking the beginning of a new era in their racing legacy.