HorseRacing
Potential Star Enterdadragon Faces Crucial Test Before Possible Florida Derby Entry
2025-03-20

A promising contender in the world of horse racing, Enterdadragon, could be set to make waves in the Grade 1 Florida Derby scheduled for March 29 at Gulfstream Park. Known for his impressive performances on turf, this gelded son of Outwork is now being evaluated for his adaptability to dirt tracks. Trainer Jose D’Angelo is keen to assess Enterdadragon's capabilities during a crucial workout session planned for Saturday at Palm Meadows, Gulfstream’s training facility in Palm Beach County. This evaluation will play a pivotal role in determining whether Enterdadragon will compete in the Triple Crown prep race or take an alternative route.

Enterdadragon has garnered attention as a strong performer on grass, but his trainer seeks to explore his potential on dirt surfaces. The decision hinges on how well he handles the different track conditions during the upcoming trial. Despite having been entered in a recent allowance race, D’Angelo opted to scratch him, prioritizing stakes-level competition. The horse has demonstrated resilience and skill over varying distances, including a commendable fourth-place finish in the Kitten’s Joy last February.

D’Angelo expressed satisfaction with Enterdadragon's performance in the Colonel Liam, where he narrowly missed out on victory, finishing second by just a head behind Mi Bago. Seven of his nine career starts have taken place on grass, highlighting his affinity for the surface. However, his single attempt on dirt, though challenging due to a bump at the start, yielded a respectable fifth-place finish in the Aventura last fall. Improvements in his gear and tactics have contributed to his growth as a competitor.

If the decision is made to bypass the Florida Derby, Enterdadragon remains a formidable candidate for the $165,000 Cutler Bay, a race tailored for three-year-olds on turf. The choice between these two races rests heavily on the outcome of his final workout. With the prospect of showcasing his endurance in a longer race, D’Angelo and his team are cautiously optimistic about their next steps.

As Enterdadragon prepares for what could be a defining moment in his racing career, all eyes are on his performance in the upcoming workout. The results will not only determine his immediate future in the racing circuit but also solidify his reputation as a versatile and competitive athlete. Regardless of the path chosen, one thing is certain: Enterdadragon continues to inspire confidence and intrigue in the world of thoroughbred racing.

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