In a nail-biting finish, trainer Bob Baffert’s Getaway Car narrowly triumphed over D. Wayne Lukas’ Caldera by a head in the $400,000 Sunland Park Derby on Sunday. The two horses were neck and neck through the stretch, with Getaway Car emerging as the winner after an intense race. This victory earned Getaway Car 20 qualifying points for the Kentucky Derby, solidifying its position as a strong contender. Meanwhile, Caldera secured its first Derby points, adding to the excitement of the event. The competition between these two legendary trainers, Baffert and Lukas, brought out the best in both teams, showcasing their long-standing rivalry and friendship.

The thrilling showdown at Sunland Park was not just about winning; it also highlighted the strategic importance of qualifying points for the Kentucky Derby. Getaway Car, under jockey Juan Hernandez, now boasts 36 points and ranks third on the leaderboard. The horse has shown remarkable potential, following in the footsteps of Baffert’s other top contenders like Citizen Bull and Magnitude. The race itself was a testament to the skill and determination of all participants, with the winning time clocked at 1:42.64 over a fast track. The close finish left spectators on the edge of their seats, emphasizing the unpredictability and excitement of horse racing.

The Sunland Park Derby featured a field of talented horses, each vying for precious qualifying points. Caldera, ridden by Rafael Bejarano, earned 10 points despite finishing second. The next three finishers—Touchy, Take Charge Tom, and Itsmybirthday—also picked up valuable points. This race not only showcased the prowess of Getaway Car but also highlighted the depth of competition in the Kentucky Derby prep races. With such a tight finish, the stakes for future races have never been higher.

Beyond the immediate excitement of the race, the Sunland Park Derby underscored the enduring rivalry between Baffert and Lukas. These two trainers, both Hall of Famers, have faced off in numerous high-stakes races over the years. Their history includes memorable moments like the 1996 Kentucky Derby, where Lukas’ Thunder Gulch narrowly beat Baffert’s Cavonnier. Despite their competitive nature, Baffert and Lukas share a deep respect for one another. With Baffert boasting 16 Triple Crown victories and Lukas having 15, their continued presence in the sport ensures that fans will always have something to look forward to.

The day’s events at Sunland Park also included a successful outing for trainer Steve Asmussen, whose fillies Runnin N Gunnin and Enchanting finished first and second in the $250,000 Sunland Park Oaks. This win added to Asmussen’s impressive record and further highlighted the depth of talent in the world of horse racing. Overall, the Sunland Park Derby proved to be an exhilarating event, filled with drama and anticipation, setting the stage for more exciting races to come.