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New Kent, Virginia—In a stunning display of speed and strategy, American Promise claimed victory in the prestigious Virginia Derby, marking trainer D. Wayne Lukas's first triumph at Colonial Downs. This monumental win not only solidifies American Promise's place in the Kentucky Derby 2025 but also sets a new course record.

Redefining Excellence: The Journey to Kentucky Derby Glory

The sun-soaked day at Colonial Downs was more than just a race; it was a celebration of horseracing excellence. With a sellout crowd of approximately 8,500 spectators and an impressive $6,540,489 in betting handle, the event underscored the growing allure of this classic meet.

Achieving Unprecedented Success

American Promise's journey to victory began with a strategic approach. Jockey Nik Juárez, guided by his deep understanding of the horse's capabilities, pressed the odds-on favorite Getaway Car through challenging fractions. This aggressive maneuver positioned American Promise perfectly for a commanding lead. The colt, known for his sharpness following recent workouts, demonstrated unparalleled endurance, completing the one-turn, 1 1/8-mile race in a blistering 1:46.41—a new track record.This performance was not merely about speed; it was a testament to meticulous preparation. Juárez's familiarity with American Promise, gained from working closely with him over the past weeks, allowed for precise execution during the race. His decision to let Getaway Car take the early lead while maintaining a close second was pivotal. As they approached the half-mile pole, American Promise surged ahead, leaving competitors in awe of his relentless drive.

Building Momentum Toward Kentucky Derby

For trainer D. Wayne Lukas, this victory represents more than just another accolade in his illustrious career—it signifies breaking new ground at Colonial Downs. At 89 years old, Lukas continues to defy expectations, showcasing his ability to prepare horses for the highest levels of competition. BC Stables, led by Brian Coelho and John Bellinger, acquired American Promise for a substantial $750,000 investment at the 2023 Keeneland September yearling sale, underscoring their commitment to nurturing top-tier talent.Juárez, riding his first Kentucky Derby contender, expressed gratitude for the opportunity and excitement about the potential to compete in the prestigious race. "I’m going to enjoy this moment," he stated, acknowledging the significance of this achievement. "But obviously, it would be a thrill to be in the Derby."

Navigating Challenges Along the Way

While American Promise dominated the field, other competitors faced unique challenges that tested their mettle. Render Judgment, under jockey Sheldon Russell, started strong but ultimately fell short of overtaking the leader. Russell noted the impact of weather-related disruptions, which prevented regular rider Brian Hernandez Jr. from participating. Despite these hurdles, he praised the horse's effort and credited strategic decisions for securing second place.Omaha Omaha showcased resilience by closing from last to claim third position. Meanwhile, Getaway Car, despite being the pre-race favorite, faded to fourth after setting a demanding pace. Irad Ortiz Jr., reflecting on the race, highlighted the fierce competition posed by American Promise. "That was a huge performance by (American Promise)," he remarked, emphasizing the quality of the winner's run.

Charting the Course to Derby Qualification

The Virginia Derby served as a critical stepping stone toward Kentucky Derby qualification, offering valuable points to top finishers. American Promise earned 50 points, significantly bolstering his chances for inclusion in the iconic race. Behind him, Render Judgment secured 25 points, followed by Omaha Omaha with 15, Getaway Car earning 10, and Studlydoright claiming 5 points.American Promise's only prior victory came in a maiden race at Oaklawn on December 29. Yet, his performance in the Virginia Derby defied expectations, paying $16.20 to win as the third choice in a competitive field of seven. This remarkable achievement highlights the unpredictable nature of horseracing and the potential for underdogs to rise to greatness.As the horseracing world anticipates the next chapter in American Promise's journey, all eyes are set on the Kentucky Derby. Trainer Lukas, jockey Juárez, and the entire team behind this exceptional colt stand poised to make history once again.