As the first Saturday in May approaches, three significant races will take place across the United States on January 4, setting the stage for hopeful contenders aiming to earn a spot in the prestigious Kentucky Derby. The Jerome Stakes at Aqueduct, the Smarty Jones Stakes at Oaklawn Park, and the San Vicente Stakes at Santa Anita offer crucial opportunities for young thoroughbreds to accumulate qualifying points. These races not only highlight the talent of newly turned 3-year-olds but also provide trainers with valuable insights into their horses' potential.

The Jerome Stakes: A Competitive Field in New York

The $150,000 Jerome Stakes at Aqueduct features an eight-horse field, each vying for Derby qualifying points. Among them is Studlydoright, the only entrant with prior Derby points, thanks to his fourth-place finish in the Remsen Stakes. Trained by Jerry Robb and ridden by Xavier Perez, this Maryland-bred colt has shown consistent performance throughout seven races in 2024. Other notable entries include two horses from Rick Dutrow Jr.'s stable and Cyclone State under Chad Summers' guidance.

This one-mile race serves as an early test for the young thoroughbreds. Studlydoright's experience and recent success make him a strong contender. However, the competition is fierce, with several promising newcomers looking to establish themselves. Trainers are keen to assess their horses' readiness for the challenges ahead, particularly as they prepare for the ultimate goal—the Kentucky Derby. The Jerome Stakes offers a glimpse into the potential of these horses, providing valuable data on speed, stamina, and racing strategy.

The San Vicente Stakes: California's Premier Derby Prep

The $200,000 San Vicente Stakes at Santa Anita presents perhaps the most competitive lineup among the three races. With only five entrants, including Mike McCarthy's undefeated Bullard and Bob Baffert's promising Barnes, this seven-furlong event promises intense competition. Bullard enters off a win in the Bob Hope Stakes, while Barnes, a $3.2 million colt owned by Zedan Racing, secured a narrow victory in his debut at Churchill Downs. McKinzie Street, who earned three Derby points, adds further depth to the field.

The San Vicente Stakes marks the first major step on California's path to the Kentucky Derby. This race is critical for trainers and owners, offering both a chance to gauge their horses' potential and a platform for accumulating vital qualifying points. Bullard's perfect record and Barnes' impressive pedigree set the stage for an exciting showdown. The stakes are high, with every horse aiming to prove its mettle and secure a coveted spot in the starting gate for the world's most famous horse race. As the season progresses, the results from this race will be closely watched, influencing future strategies and expectations for the Derby contenders.