One of the most promising young thoroughbreds, Ferocious, is set to make a significant return in the upcoming Grade 3 Holy Bull Stakes at Gulfstream Park. This prestigious event, with a prize purse of $265,000, will be held over a distance of 1 1/16 miles and serves as a crucial stepping stone toward the coveted Florida Derby on March 29.

Purchased for an impressive $1.3 million last March, Ferocious has garnered attention not only for his price tag but also for his exceptional performance. Assistant trainer Gustavo Delgado Jr. expressed confidence in the horse's potential, noting that while he is still developing, the team aims to have him peak for the Kentucky Derby. Ferocious made waves with a stunning debut victory last summer, achieving a Beyer Speed Figure of 96, which places him among the fastest 2-year-olds of 2024. Despite facing tough competition in subsequent races, including a fifth-place finish in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile, Ferocious has consistently shown promise and resilience.

The Holy Bull field is packed with talent, featuring five previous winners, including notable contenders like Guns Loaded and He’s Not Joking. Guns Loaded, who won the Mucho Macho Man race in January, will be attempting his first two-turn race, while He’s Not Joking brings experience from winning the Grey Stakes. Hall of Fame jockey Javier Castellano will once again ride Ferocious, adding to the excitement surrounding the horse's return. The inclusion of blinkers for the first time is expected to enhance Ferocious's focus and performance.

This race marks the beginning of what could be a remarkable season for Ferocious. Co-owner Ramiro Restrepo likened it to the first round of a Grand Slam in tennis, emphasizing the importance of each step in preparing for the ultimate goal—the Kentucky Derby. The Holy Bull Stakes promises to be a thrilling spectacle, showcasing some of the finest young horses and setting the stage for future classics. As the racing community watches closely, the anticipation builds for what Ferocious can achieve in this pivotal moment of his career.