Colonial Downs the scene for latest Let ’em Run Kentucky Derby prep

Race 6 – The Sandy Bottom Stakes (1 Mile Dirt – $100K)

In the opening leg of the Pick 5, we will focus on two runners. The #3 Running Away (5-2) draws interest because the trainer shows a strong 40 percent angle when moving horses from turf to dirt. This runner has also competed in several quality graded stakes races.

We will also include #7 Her Laugh (9-2). The jockey change to John Velazquez is notable, and the outside draw could allow this horse to settle into a comfortable early position. The recent workouts also suggest this runner is ready to deliver a strong performance.

Pick 5 Leg 1: 3, 7

Race 7 – Allowance Stakes (1 Mile Dirt – $100K)

The second leg of the Pick 5 requires a little more coverage. The likely favorite is #6 Eunomia (6-5), and it is difficult to ignore the top Prime Power rating.

Another runner to consider is #2 Sultry Lass (8-1) with jockey Sheldon Russell riding for trainer Brittany Russell. This horse is third off the layoff, and the trainer has a strong record with runners making their second start under her care.

We will also add #1 Queen Azteca (5-1), who gets blinkers for the first time and could show improved early speed. Finally, #7 Runaway Diva (5-1) deserves inclusion thanks to prior experience at the distance and over the Colonial Downs surface.

Pick 5 Leg 2: 1, 2, 6, 7

Race 8 – The Virginia Oaks (1 1/16 Miles Dirt – $250K)

The Virginia Oaks may be fairly straightforward, as three runners appear to stand out. #3 Battle of Rouge (6-5) will attract plenty of attention with the top Prime Power rating and jockey Flavian Prat aboard.

#1 Dazzling Dame (5-2) could control the pace on the front end in this unique one-turn mile and a sixteenth race. Meanwhile, #2 Hit Parade (3-1) did not fire in the last start but has already recorded two wins at this distance. The addition of jockey Irad Ortiz Jr. makes this runner even more appealing.

Pick 5 Leg 3: 1, 2, 3

Race 9 – The Virginia Derby (1 1/8 Miles Dirt – $500K)

Recent Kentucky Derby prep races have produced several surprises, and this race could follow a similar pattern. The likely favorite is #1 Buetane (5-2) from the barn of Bob Baffert, who looks like the runner to beat.

However, we are also looking at #7 Incredibolt (10-1), who ran a puzzling race last time out. If he returns to his earlier form, he could be a strong upset candidate.

We will also include #2 Grittiness (12-1), #5 High Camp (9-2) with John Velazquez remaining aboard, and #8 Confessional (4-1), trained by Brad Cox, who wins at a strong rate with horses routing for the second time.

Pick 5 Leg 4: 1, 2, 5, 7, 8

Race 10 – Optional Claiming (1 1/16 Miles Dirt – OC $50K/N2X)

The final leg gives us a few interesting possibilities. Only two runners in the field have already won at Colonial Downs: #6 Freedom Road (5-1) and #8 Lure Him In (2-1). Both also feature experienced jockeys in a race where rider decisions could play a key role.

We will also add #7 Maclean’s Rook (5-2), who carries the top Prime Power rating and posted the highest last race speed figure in the field.

Pick 5 Leg 5: 6, 7, 8

Pick 5 Ticket Strategy

For players who want to follow the full ticket structure:

3,7 / 1,2,6,7 / 1,2,3 / 1,2,5,7,8 / 6,7,8 = $180

For a more budget-friendly option:

3,7 / 1,2,6,7 / 1 / 1,2,5,7,8 / 6,7,8 = $60

This sequence has the potential to produce a solid payout if the results do not follow the obvious favorites.

Be sure to tune in Friday at 3 PM when John Kostin and I take a deeper look at the races. Then join us again Saturday at 11:30 AM for any final adjustments following scratches or track condition changes.

You can catch the show on the Sports Talk Media Network along with several social channels and streaming platforms.

As we always say, bet smart, cheer hard, and remember that fast horses can lead to serious fun.

When it is all said and done… Let ‘em Run.