Kentucky Derby 2025: Bullard to get two-turn test in Rebel Stakes

Santa Anita-based Bullard is headed to Oaklawn for the Rebel, and armchair handicappers might view his past performances and conclude he is merely a late-running sprinter. His first two starts were last-to-first sprint wins, including the Grade 3 Bob Hope on Nov. 17 at Del Mar, followed by an even-paced third in the seven-furlong San Vicente on Jan. 4 at Santa Anita.

“I sprinted him [again in the San Vicente] strictly because I didn’t want to wait another month to run him,” trainer Michael McCarthy said. “The winner of the San Vicente [Barnes] is a fast horse.”

Why is McCarthy optimistic Bullard will stay two turns?

“Everything about the way he trains, and being around him,” McCarthy said. “The horse has real efficient action. His pedigree shouts two turns as well – Gun Runner out of a Warrior’s Reward mare. I don’t think there is any shortness of stamina there.”

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Post positions for the Rebel will be drawn Sunday.

Bullard looked terrific in a team work last Sunday at Santa Anita, five furlongs in 1:00.80. Later that morning, McCarthy worked Grade 2 winner Journalism five furlongs. The 59.80-second work was his first in 10 days after weather and track closure disrupted his schedule. Journalism is penciled in for the San Felipe.

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