Kentucky Derby Contenders - Day 14: #17 Java's War
Contributed By Post Time PetePosted on 4/14/13 7:57 AM
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Trainer: Kenneth G. McPeek |
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| Jockey: Julien Leparoux* | ||
| Owner: Charles E. Fipke | ||
| Breeder: Charles E. Fipke | ||
| Earnings: $520,000* | ||
| Points: 122* | ||
| Next Race: Kentucky Derby (G1)* | ||
| * Current as of April 14, 2013 | ||
|---|---|---|
Java's War was listed #17 on the Kentucky Derby contenders list as of April 1st, but his win yesterday in the Blue Grass Stakes (G1) leapt him into the top 3 or 4 and, barring an injury, he's a lock for the Kentucky Derby. He's a War Pass and Java colt with a place in the Tampa Bay Derby (G2) and a show in the Breeders' Futurity (G1). By far, his imost impressive race was his last-to-first win in the Blue Grass Stakes (G1) yesterday.
After breaking from the gate in the Blue Grass, Java's War got off to a gingerly pace and was a non-factor through the first 3/4 of the race. His connections didn't seem to be bothered though.
"That's his running style; I wasn't concerned at all," said trainer Kenneth McPeek. "He just doesn't get away quick, and I don't think you can force that... Julien didn't panic or anything. I think that's three wins in three days we've had coming from way back."
Verrazano will likely go off as the Derby favorite at this point, but Java's War finished a solid second to him in the Tampa Bay Derby. We like his chances on the first Saturday in May and as of right now, he'll be on our shortlist.
Click here to preview yesterday's breakdown of #18 on the earnings list, Merit Man.
Check back tomorrow when we preview #16 on our list, Shanghai Bobby.
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