Epicenter, Echo Zulu work six furlongs for Derby, Oaks; Morello out of Derby
Stablemates Epicenter and Echo Zulu, who are expected to be among the favorites for the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks, respectively, turned in their penultimate and most serious breezes for the spring classics on Sunday morning at Churchill Downs.
Unbeaten champion juvenile filly Echo Zulu worked shortly after the track opened at 5:15 a.m. for trainer Steve Asmussen. Inside of workmate King Ottoman, she went six furlongs in 1:11 4/5 seconds, according to Churchill Downs clockers.
Louisiana Derby winner Epicenter worked in the second set of horses, on the outside of Gun It for six furlongs in 1:12 1/5.
Asmussen's regular work pattern is to give his horses their stiffest breeze two weeks out from a major race, with an easy maintenance move the week of the race.
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“These were the most significant works for us," Asmussen said. "We’re following a pattern that we’re very comfortable with. I love the rhythm these horses are in. Both of these horses have kept their same workmates from New Orleans this winter."
While putting his classics contenders through their paces, Asmussen also confirmed that another hopeful in his barn, Morello, will bypass the Kentucky Derby with a foot issue. Morello's defection opens a spot in the 20-horse field for Pioneer of Medina, who galloped Sunday morning at Churchill Downs. The colt, who trainer Todd Pletcher said had bloodwork that was "a little off when he shipped in," is scheduled to breeze Monday morning.
Pioneer of Medina's movement into the main body of the field puts In Due Time and Ethereal Road 21st and 22nd, respectively, on the Derby leaderboard. The final status for Early Voting, who sits above them in the top 20, has yet to be confirmed.
** Kentucky Derby candidate Happy Jack, third in the Santa Anita Derby, shipped to Kentucky on Saturday and is scheduled to have his final pre-race work next weekend at Keeneland. The colt is trained by Doug O’Neill, whose Nyquist did all his serious training at Keeneland before winning the 2016 Kentucky Derby.