The goal of this series is to prepare for the Kentucky Derby by reviewing the racing history of the contenders. By the end of this article, you’ll have a good understanding of what the undefeated Dortmund brings to the Kentucky Derby and while he’ll be a top 2 choice come post time on the first Saturday in May.
Dortmund appeared on the radar with an notable win in an 2YO routing allowance at Churchill. I always try to play this class and distance of race; Dortmund made quite an impression. I thought he was a clear favorite and had heard the buzz from Baffert, but it was more a question of the lack of depth of the field than Dortmund’s ability. He had been wide in his maiden, and I worried about his discipline. But, after the race, I came away with a much stronger opinion, even though he still ran wide.
Dortmund was impressive in winning a N1X just now at #Churchill for Baffert. Very solid with wide trip. Likes Churchill. One to watch.
The Buzz grew and he was the heavy favorite in the 5-horse Los Alamitos Futurity.
His stamina — his defining feature — was well on display as he just had more than the others in the final strides. His staying ability in something you’ll notice in these next two races.
Robert B. Lewis Stakes
Firing Line and Dortmund returned in the Robert B. Lewis Stakes. What happened next was amazing. I watch a great deal of racing and you almost never see a horse do what Dortmund did in this race.
All I know is that Trevor said “Firing Line has his measure” & that means it’s over. But nope. #Dortmund#KyDerby — Seth Abrams (@alldayracing) April 23, 2015
Santa Anita Derby
According to Brisnet, the Santa Anita Derby was the hardest prep for the Kentucky Derby.
It also was run at a tough early pace and Dortmund had plenty left for the stretch. He beat several good horses, although due to subsequent injuries, only Bolo will follow Dortmund to the Derby from this prep.
Dortmund continues to show tremendous stamina and a versatility in style. He’s likely to be a close second choice to American Pharoah, previewed next.
Kentucky Derby Contender Profile: Dortmund
Seth AbramsThe goal of this series is to prepare for the Kentucky Derby by reviewing the racing history of the contenders. By the end of this article, you’ll have a good understanding of what the undefeated Dortmund brings to the Kentucky Derby and while he’ll be a top 2 choice come post time on the first Saturday in May.
Dortmund appeared on the radar with an notable win in an 2YO routing allowance at Churchill. I always try to play this class and distance of race; Dortmund made quite an impression. I thought he was a clear favorite and had heard the buzz from Baffert, but it was more a question of the lack of depth of the field than Dortmund’s ability. He had been wide in his maiden, and I worried about his discipline. But, after the race, I came away with a much stronger opinion, even though he still ran wide.
You can watch the allowance here: Dortmund Allowance Win
Los Alamitos Futurity
The Buzz grew and he was the heavy favorite in the 5-horse Los Alamitos Futurity.
His stamina — his defining feature — was well on display as he just had more than the others in the final strides. His staying ability in something you’ll notice in these next two races.
Robert B. Lewis Stakes
Firing Line and Dortmund returned in the Robert B. Lewis Stakes. What happened next was amazing. I watch a great deal of racing and you almost never see a horse do what Dortmund did in this race.
Santa Anita Derby
According to Brisnet, the Santa Anita Derby was the hardest prep for the Kentucky Derby.
It also was run at a tough early pace and Dortmund had plenty left for the stretch. He beat several good horses, although due to subsequent injuries, only Bolo will follow Dortmund to the Derby from this prep.
Dortmund continues to show tremendous stamina and a versatility in style. He’s likely to be a close second choice to American Pharoah, previewed next.