In a thrilling display of horsemanship and strategy, Built secured an impressive victory in the prestigious Gun Runner Stakes at the Fair Grounds. Despite a last-minute jockey switch, this Kentucky Derby prep race saw Built effortlessly claim first place, earning valuable qualifying points for the upcoming championship.

A Last-Minute Switch Couldn't Dampen Built's Unstoppable Run to Victory

The Unexpected Change in Riders

When Corey Lanerie faced travel delays on Saturday morning, Jareth Loveberry was called upon to ride Built. Lanerie had previously guided the colt to victory at Keeneland on October 6. The sudden change did little to deter Built’s performance. Loveberry, stepping into the saddle with only hours’ notice, found himself leading the field from the start. Magnitude, piloted by Jose Ortiz, trailed closely but never posed a serious challenge. Built maintained a commanding lead throughout the race, extending it significantly as they approached the finish line.Built, a promising 2-year-old son of Hard Spun, handled the fast track conditions admirably. Trainer Wayne Catalano expressed his satisfaction with the horse’s performance, highlighting the importance of securing the rail position and maintaining a steady pace. “Today was our day,” Catalano remarked, acknowledging the hard work and dedication that led to this momentous win.

Preparation and Strategy Behind the Win

The Gun Runner Stakes marks the beginning of Louisiana’s path to the Kentucky Derby. Built’s victory not only earned him 10 crucial qualifying points but also showcased his potential as a formidable contender. The next steps in this journey include the Lecomte Stakes on January 18, followed by the Risen Star Stakes on February 15, and culminating in the Louisiana Derby on March 22. These races will be pivotal in determining Built’s readiness for the ultimate test in May.Catalano emphasized the significance of these preparatory races, noting that each event provides valuable experience and insight into Built’s capabilities. Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners, who own Built, have invested heavily in his development, ensuring he receives top-tier training and care. The trainer’s confidence in Built is palpable, as he aims to guide the colt through the grueling Derby trail with precision and poise.

Anatomy of a Perfect Race

Built’s dominance in the Gun Runner Stakes can be attributed to several factors. First, his ability to take the lead early and maintain it without expending too much energy set the stage for a powerful finish. Second, the well-coordinated efforts between Loveberry and Catalano ensured that Built was in optimal form. Loveberry praised Catalano’s preparation, stating, “He was well-trained and ready to perform.”The winning time of 1:43.53 over a fast track further underscores Built’s exceptional speed and endurance. At odds of 7-2, Built returned $9.80 for a $2 win bet, delighting supporters who recognized his potential. Behind Built, Magnitude finished second, followed by Render Judgment, Admiral Dennis, and Chris’s Revenge. Each competitor gave their best effort, but none could match Built’s relentless drive.

Beyond the Track: Implications for the Derby Trail

The Gun Runner Stakes serves as the final prep race for 2-year-olds before they officially turn 3 on January 1. For Built, this victory sets the tone for what promises to be an exciting season. The stakes are high, and every point earned now counts towards securing a coveted spot in the Kentucky Derby starting gate.Other notable events on the horizon include the Smarty Jones at Oaklawn Park and the Jerome at Aqueduct, both scheduled for January 4. These races will offer additional opportunities for young horses to prove their mettle and accumulate vital qualifying points. As Built prepares for the next phase of his journey, all eyes will be on him to see if he can continue his winning streak and emerge as a true champion.

Her Laugh Shines in Untapable Stakes

In another highlight of the day, Her Laugh triumphed in the $100,000 Untapable Stakes for 2-year-old fillies. This race served as a qualifier for the Kentucky Oaks (G1), with Her Laugh earning 10 valuable points. Golden Gamble came in second, securing five points, while California Sunset, Stable Currency, and Drexel Hill rounded out the top five.Her Laugh’s victory was a testament to her resilience and talent. Trainers and owners alike were thrilled with her performance, recognizing the importance of this win in positioning her for future success. As the racing community looks ahead to the Kentucky Oaks, Her Laugh stands out as a rising star among the fillies.