One of the most anticipated events in the horse racing calendar, the Sunland Derby, is set to take place next Sunday. This Grade 3 event offers a significant opportunity for young thoroughbreds to earn valuable points towards the Kentucky Derby 2025. Among the nine contenders vying for glory, Getaway Car has emerged as the frontrunner, with a morning-line odds of 9-5.

Trained by the renowned Bob Baffert, Getaway Car boasts an impressive pedigree and early career success. Purchased for $700,000 as a yearling, this Curlin colt secured victories in his first two starts, including the prestigious Grade 3 Best Pal Stakes at Del Mar. However, recent performances have seen the horse finish second in the American Pharoah (G1) and Los Alamitos Futurity (G2), and fourth in the Del Mar Futurity (G1) and Breeders’ Cup Juvenile. Despite these setbacks, Getaway Car remains a formidable competitor, with jockey Juan Hernández ready to guide him to victory once again.

The field also includes several other promising three-year-olds. Touchy, who placed second in the Turfway Prevue, enters the race with odds of 7-2. McKinzie Street, fresh from a second-place finish in the Del Mar Futurity, will be aiming for redemption at odds of 4-1. Meanwhile, Take Charge Tom, a local stakes winner with three consecutive victories, rounds out the favorites at 8-1. The Sunland Derby will be the ninth race on Sunday's card, with the first post time scheduled for 2:25 p.m. EST.

The Sunland Derby not only promises thrilling competition but also highlights the dedication and passion of trainers and jockeys who work tirelessly to prepare their horses for such high-stakes events. It underscores the spirit of perseverance and resilience that defines the sport of horse racing. As the young thoroughbreds line up for this crucial race, all eyes will be on Getaway Car and the rest of the field, hoping to witness the rise of a future champion.