Saturnalia in peak form for Japanese Derby

They were separated by a head and a nose in the Grade 1 Japanese 2000 Guineas last month, but Saturnalia, Velox, and Danon Kingly are not considered equals in Sunday’s Grade 1 Japanese Derby at Tokyo Racecourse.

At least that’s the case if likely betting scenarios are considered. The undefeated Saturnalia is expected to be a heavy favorite, with Danon Kingly and Velox the second and third choices in a field of 18. The $3.8 million Japanese Derby is run at 1 1/2 miles on turf.

Damian Lane of Australia will ride Saturnalia for the first time in the Japanese Derby.

Saturnalia was ridden by Christophe Lemaire in the 2000 Guineas at 1 1/4 miles on turf. Lemaire said at the time that the colt was not in peak form but would be for the Japanese Derby. Lemaire will miss the race while serving a 16-day suspension issued earlier this month.

Saturnalia won his 2019 debut in the 2000 Guineas and his second consecutive Grade 1 race, having won the Hopeful Stakes last December.

By Lord Kanaloa, Saturnalia has a pedigree with a background in American racing. Saturnalia, trained by Katsuhiko Sumii for U. Carrot Farm, is out of Cesario, who won the Grade 1 American Oaks at Hollywood Park in 2005.

Velox won two minor stakes at 1 1/4 miles on turf in January and February before the narrow loss in the 2000 Guineas.

Danon Kingly was beaten for the first time in the 2000 Guineas in his fourth start. He was a Grade 3 winner at 1 1/8 miles on turf in February.