Authentic works six furlongs for Kentucky Derby

Authentic, the narrow winner of the Grade 1 Haskell Invitational on July 18 at Monmouth Park, had his third workout of August at Del Mar on Thursday in preparation for the Kentucky Derby on Sept. 5 at Churchill Downs.

Authentic worked six furlongs in 1:12.60. Earlier this month, Authentic worked a half-mile in 50.20 seconds on Aug. 1 and five furlongs in 1:03 on Aug. 8.

“I gave him a little company and gave him a little target,” trainer Bob Baffert said. “It was a good move. He went very well.”

Authentic rates as a leading contender for the Kentucky Derby, postponed from its traditional date on the first Saturday of May because of the coronavirus outbreak. Authentic, who races for the partnership of Spendthrift Farm, MyRaceHorse Stable, Madaket Stable, and Starlight Racing, has won 4 of 5 starts and earned $1,011,200.

In the Haskell Invitational at 1 1/8 miles, Authentic was the 3-5 favorite and set the pace. He led by 2 1/2 lengths with a furlong remaining and was fully extended to win by a nose over Ny Traffic.

Authentic’s only loss was a second by 2 3/4 lengths to Honor A. P. in the Grade 1 Santa Anita Derby on June 6.