Motion eager to see how Hayabusa One performs in Hollywood Derby

From the south of France via Keeneland, Hayabusa One is ready for his stakes debut in Saturday’s $300,000 Hollywood Derby at Del Mar.

Hayabusa One won his American debut in an allowance race at 1 3/16 miles on turf at Keeneland on Oct. 9, leaving trainer Graham Motion eager for the Grade 1 Hollywood Derby at 1 1/8 miles on turf.

“Certainly, it’s a big step,” Motion said. “I thought he was really impressive at Keeneland. I’d be happy if it were a mile and a quarter and not a mile and an eighth. It’s a good opportunity for him.”

Owned by the Team Valor International partnership and Gary Barber, Hayabusa One won a maiden race at Cagnes-sur-Mer, France, last February and was rested until arriving at Motion’s Maryland stable in May.

At Keeneland, Hayabusa One closed from ninth in a field of 12 to win by a convincing 3 3/4 lengths.

“I did not expect a big performance,” Motion said. “I’m not sure he was 100 percent ready to run. It was a good race for him. We had this race in mind after he won. It gave him plenty of time to get over it.”

Hayabusa One is part of a tough field in the Hollywood Derby that includes five graded stakes winners in a field of 12.