Arkansas Derby: Texas Bling has sharp workout

Texas Bling on Wednesday put in his penultimate work for the Grade 1, $1 million Arkansas Derby on April 13, going five furlongs in 1:01.60. Trainer Danele Durham said his final prep would come Tuesday, with plans for a three-furlong blowout at Oaklawn.

Texas Bling worked under jockey Calvin Borel, with Oaklawn head clocker Jim Hamilton carrying him through fractions of 12.80 seconds for the opening eighth of a mile, 25.20 for the first quarter, and 38.40 for three furlongs. Hamilton had the horse’s final quarter in 23.20 and had him galloping out six furlongs in 1:14.40.

“My gosh, he had an impressive work,” Durham said. “It was awesome. Calvin said he was so impressed with his stride. He said that he worked better today than he worked last week. He said he was excited about riding him.”

Texas Bling won the $300,000 Springboard Mile at Remington Park in December and in his last start was fourth in the Grade 2 Rebel.

[ROAD TO THE KENTUCKY DERBY: Prep races, point standings, replays]