The Risen Star Stakes, set to take place on Saturday at the Fair Grounds, marks a pivotal moment for aspiring Kentucky Derby contenders. This Grade 2 race, covering a distance of 1 1/8 miles, offers a significant opportunity for horses to secure a spot in the prestigious Kentucky Derby by earning valuable qualifying points. The winner of this event will walk away with 50 points, virtually guaranteeing entry into the first Saturday in May. Among the notable participants is East Avenue, who makes his three-year-old debut following an unfortunate performance in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile. Built, fresh from a victory in the Gun Runner stakes and a second-place finish in the Lecomte, aims to build momentum towards the Derby. Post time is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. EST, with coverage available on FanDuel TV.
The competition promises to be intense, as several promising young horses vie for supremacy. East Avenue, despite his impressive pedigree and previous success, faces skepticism due to his recent layoff. Trainer Brendan Walsh has been preparing the horse meticulously, but concerns linger about whether he can maintain top form after such a long break. Another contender, Vassimo, trained by Todd Pletcher, comes off a strong win in a recent allowance race. His consistent performances make him a dark horse in this field. Septarian, under Chad Brown's guidance, adds another layer of intrigue. Blinkers have been added to his equipment, potentially altering his racing style and making him more competitive for the early lead. American Promise, trained by D. Wayne Lukas, also enters the fray with a respectable record, though he remains an outsider compared to the favorites.
Built, trained by Wayne Catalano, represents one of the most intriguing stories leading into the Risen Star. After finishing second in the Lecomte, he has shown steady improvement and could leverage this race to solidify his position among the top Derby hopefuls. The addition of Luis Saez as his jockey further enhances his chances. Meanwhile, Jonathan’s Way, initially expected to compete, has withdrawn, leaving the field slightly less crowded but no less competitive. Other entrants like Chunk of Gold, Seattle Road, and Giocoso bring their own unique strengths to the table, ensuring a dynamic and unpredictable race.
Pace predictions suggest that American Promise, East Avenue, and Septarian may vie for the early lead. TimeformUS anticipates a swift pace, which could impact how these horses manage their energy throughout the race. Ed DeRosa, a respected handicapper, advises caution when backing East Avenue at short odds. Despite his stellar record, DeRosa argues that the extended distance and the competitiveness of the field make it difficult to justify favoring him without a significant price advantage. Ashley Tamulonis and Laurie Ross agree that the morning-line favorite appears vulnerable, adding depth to the analysis of this critical race.
As the horses line up for the Risen Star, all eyes will be on which contender can rise to the occasion and claim those coveted Derby points. The race not only serves as a test of stamina and strategy but also sets the stage for the thrilling journey ahead. With expert opinions divided and numerous variables at play, Saturday’s event promises excitement and drama that will captivate fans and analysts alike. The outcome will undoubtedly shape the narrative leading into the Kentucky Derby, where every point counts in the pursuit of glory.