Several notable thoroughbreds have resumed their training regimens, showcasing impressive performances on the track. Among them is Nysos, a 4-year-old Nyquist colt under the guidance of trainer Bob Baffert. After an almost year-long hiatus due to injury, Nysos made a triumphant return with a solid workout at Santa Anita. Other top contenders like Journalism, Speed Boat Beach, and Exaulted also demonstrated their readiness for upcoming races. These workouts signal the horses' preparation for high-stakes competitions, including potential entries in the Kentucky Derby 2025.
Nysos, who boasts a perfect 3-for-3 record prior to his extended break, has been eagerly awaited by fans. His career began with a dominant 10.5-length victory in a maiden special weight race in October 2023. He followed this up with two more impressive wins: an 8.75-length triumph in the Grade 3 Bob Hope and a 7.5-length success in the Robert B. Lewis (G3). However, an unfortunate injury sidelined him shortly after. On Thursday, Nysos returned to action, completing four furlongs in 48.80 seconds, ranking sixth-fastest among 19 horses at the distance. Trainer Bob Baffert expressed optimism about getting Nysos back into competitive racing when he is fully prepared.
Beyond Nysos, other notable performers included Journalism, a Curlin offspring trained by Michael McCarthy. This horse, known for winning the Los Alamitos Futurity (G2), completed four furlongs in 48.8 seconds, tying with Nysos for sixth place. Speed Boat Beach, another standout from Baffert's stable, clocked in at 48.0 seconds for the same distance, placing fourth. Meanwhile, Exaulted, a Grade 1 winner from the Shoemaker Mile, posted a time of 49.0 seconds at The Thoroughbred Center, ranking 14th out of 41 works.
Thursday's workouts were not limited to these stars alone. Dean Martini, Here Mi Song, Masqueparade, Tide of the Sea, and several others also put in strong performances. Cornucopian, a newcomer yet to make its debut, showed promise with a five-furlong run in 1:00.0, while Naughty Rascal, fresh off a win in the Pasco, maintained its form with a five-furlong workout in 1:00.2. Authentic Gallop, another contender for future classics, recorded a 48.4-second time over four furlongs.
The collective efforts of these horses reflect the rigorous preparation and dedication required for top-tier racing. As trainers and jockeys gear up for the season ahead, fans can look forward to witnessing these equine athletes compete at their best. The coming months will undoubtedly be filled with thrilling races and memorable moments as these horses strive to reach their full potential on the track.