The Grade 3, $265,000 Holy Bull Stakes at Gulfstream Park on Saturday marks a significant milestone for He’s Not Joking. This race is a crucial step for sophomores aiming for the prestigious Florida Derby and offers valuable Kentucky Derby qualifying points. After an inconclusive dirt debut, this colt, trained by Josie Carroll, will be making his first appearance in two months following a challenging performance in the Kentucky Jockey Club. Despite setbacks, Carroll remains optimistic about his potential. Meanwhile, Hall of Fame jockey John Velazquez will take the reins for the first time as He’s Not Joking competes against a field that includes top contenders like Ferocious and Guns Loaded.

Evaluating He's Not Joking's Performance and Preparation

Trainer Josie Carroll reflects on He’s Not Joking's journey leading up to the Holy Bull Stakes. The colt has shown promise but faced difficulties during his previous outing. In the Kentucky Jockey Club, He’s Not Joking endured traffic issues and fatigue, which may have clouded his true ability on dirt. Since then, he has been training diligently at Palm Meadows, with impressive workouts indicating readiness for this next challenge. His most recent bullet move suggests he is back in form and prepared to showcase his potential.

Carroll emphasizes that the Kentucky Jockey Club race did not provide a clear indication of He’s Not Joking's capabilities. "He got knocked around quite a bit at the start and had a rough trip," she explained. "By the time we shipped him down here, he was still recovering from that effort." However, recent training sessions have been encouraging. "He’s been training exceptionally well, and I believe we didn’t get a true reading of his talent in that last race," Carroll added. With four solid workouts this month, including a standout five-furlong drill, the team is confident he can perform better this time around.

A Competitive Field and Strategic Advantages

The Holy Bull Stakes features a competitive lineup, but He’s Not Joking has strategic advantages. This will be his sixth start, more than any other competitor, providing valuable experience. Additionally, the smaller field size offers a less crowded environment, potentially benefiting his chances. The presence of seasoned jockey John Velazquez adds another layer of confidence for the team. Velazquez, known for his tactical riding, could play a pivotal role in navigating the race effectively.

Among the competitors, notable horses include Ferocious, who has placed twice in Grade 1 races, and Guns Loaded, the winner of the Mucho Macho Man. While these opponents present stiff competition, He’s Not Joking's preparation and experience give him a fighting chance. "We’re testing him, but it’s not like throwing him into the deep end," Carroll remarked. "A shorter field means less chaos, which should work in our favor." The upcoming race promises excitement as fans anticipate how He’s Not Joking will perform under these new conditions, aiming to prove his mettle on the main track.