Super Derby, Oklahoma Derby next-race options for Secret Passage

Secret Passage, a promising son of Curlin who was fourth in the $100,000 Prelude Stakes this month at Louisiana Downs, could run next in either the Super Derby or the Oklahoma Derby, said trainer Donnie Von Hemel.

Secret Passage went 2 for 2 last year, with both wins coming at two turns at Remington. He won a maiden special weight by going last to first in his debut in October and then accounted for an allowance in his season finale Nov. 12. Secret Passage was making his first start at 3 in the Prelude.

“I thought it was a decent race,” Von Hemel said. “He was certainly more aggressive early in the race than he’d been as a 2-year-old, and that probably took a little punch out at the end.”

Von Hemel said he looks for Secret Passage to relax better in the early stages in his next start, noting he was a fresh horse for the Prelude.

“I’m sure it’s something he’ll improve upon,” he said.

Secret Passage races for his breeder, Pin Oak Stable.