Pace Scenario Favors the Favorites
One of the most important handicapping factors in this year’s Ohio Derby is the projected pace.
Unlike many graded stakes events, this race lacks a confirmed front-runner. Several horses possess tactical speed, but there does not appear to be a true pace burner signed on. That could allow horses with early positioning and proven class to control the race from the outset.
Both Chip Honcho and Desert Gate fit that profile perfectly.
Desert Gate has shown improved early speed since adding blinkers earlier this season, while Chip Honcho has consistently raced near the pace against stronger competition.
With neither horse likely to face significant early pressure, both should secure ideal trips.
Desert Gate: The Deserving Favorite
Desert Gate enters as the morning-line favorite and has done little wrong throughout his career.
The Bob Baffert trainee owns four victories from seven starts and has posted some of the strongest speed figures in the field. His recent wins in the Hot Springs Stakes and Texas Derby were visually impressive, and his ratings consistently rank at or near the top in every major category.
The son of Desert Gate projects to be prominently placed from the start under Flavien Prat, a combination that makes him dangerous throughout.
Read more at Today's Racing Digest
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