War Pass the early future pick

Defending divisional champion War Pass was the lukewarm favorite following light wagering in the opening hours of Pool 2 of the 2008 Kentucky Derby Future Wager, which began Thursday at noon Eastern at wagering outlets throughout North America.

As of 4 p.m. Eastern on Thursday, War Pass was the 3-1 choice, followed by Pyro at 6-1. The mutuel field, the 24th or "all others" option, was the third choice at 8-1, followed by Court Vision (9-1), Denis of Cork (11-1), and Georgie Boy (15-1). Handle to that point was $15,016.

Nine of the 23 separately listed wagering interests in Pool 2 were scheduled to be in action in three Derby prep races Saturday, including six in the Louisiana Derby.

Meanwhile, also as of 4 p.m., the mutuel field and Bsharpsonata were 4-1 co-favorites in Pool 2 of the Kentucky Oaks Future Wager after handle of $2,597. Indian Blessing was a close third choice at 9-2, followed by Eight Belles at 10-1 and three fillies at 13-1.

Wagering into Pool 2 for the Derby closes Sunday at 6 p.m. Eastern, while Oaks Pool 2 closes a half-hour later.

Pool 1 for both the Derby and Oaks ran Feb. 7-10. Pool 3 is set for April 3-6. The 134th Oaks and Derby will be run May 2 and 3, respectively.